The study conducts serial, cross-sectional observations of sun protection behaviours at outdoor recreation settings including parks, beaches/pools, tennis courts, golf courses and busy outdoor streets and cafes in Melbourne. Originally commenced in 1992, it is conducted semi-annually on weekends over mid to late summer, with more than 1,000 observations made at each setting. Intercept interviews may be used to enhance the observational data with self-reported information on sunscreen use and collect related data. The study enables monitoring of sun protection trends and correlates. Observational data collected through this study may also be compared to self-reported survey data and used to evaluate SunSmart program activities. This and other research programs contribute to Cancer Council Victoria’s designation as a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Ultraviolet Radiation.
CBRC staff
Dr Clover Maitland, Dr Stephanie Cowdery, Dr Ashleigh Haynes, Dr Karlijn Thoonen, Dr Anna Nicholson, Tegan Nuss, Maree Scully, A/Prof Helen Dixon, Prof Melanie Wakefield
Collaborators
SunSmart Victoria
Funding
Cancer Council Victoria
Years
1992 - present
