Submission ID 117076
| Issue/Objective | Skin cancer is a common but preventable disease, with UV exposure as a key risk factor. Rising UV levels due to climate change make sun safety more urgent, yet access barriers persist, especially in underserved populations. This study aimed to evaluate whether the availability of free public sunscreen dispensers in Toronto influences sun-protective behaviours. The findings offer insight into this innovative public health intervention that supports adaptive solutions in Canada. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A cross-sectional, naturalistic observational study was conducted at 25 sunscreen dispensers across Toronto from July to September 2024. Observations were conducted during peak UV hours, recording user demographics, dispenser characteristics, sunscreen application, and other sun-protective behaviours. Sun safety behaviours were compared between dispenser areas and control zones (>250m away). A sun safety score was computed by assigning points for sun-protective behaviours, with higher scores indicating greater sun protection. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and outcomes were evaluated with regressions for behavioural comparisons and to assess predictors of sun safety scores. |
| Results | A total of 140 individuals were observed using sunscreen dispensers, with usage higher among women (71%) and adults (54%). Sunscreen was most frequently applied to the arms (97.9%), while face application was less common (15.0%). Specifically, males engaged in more sun-protective behaviours overall. Demographic differences were significant, with teens and children demonstrating fewer sun-protective behaviours compared to adults. Individuals who were alone had significantly lower sun safety scores than those in groups. Higher UV index and temperature were associated with increased sunscreen use, while beach locations had significantly lower sun safety scores than parks. Additionally, 1,152 individuals were observed across two proximity zones; those near dispensers were more likely to use natural shade and wear long-sleeved shirts, while individuals farther away showed higher use of hats and long pants. Overall, demographic factors particularly age emerged as the strongest predictors of sun safety behaviours. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Public sunscreen dispensers were associated with enhancing sun safety behaviours in their vicinity. However, age-related differences suggest the need for targeted education to engage children and teens. Expanding such programs could offer a cost-effective strategy to reduce skin cancer risk . |
| Presenters and affiliations | Anojini Ravichandran Toronto Metropolitan University Jasmin Bhawra Toronto Metropolitan University |
