Abstract

Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States; although through consistent sun-protective behaviors and early education, it is preventable. Despite the availability of evidence-based prevention strategies, young adults continue to engage in behaviors that increase their risk for ultraviolet (UV) exposure and skin cancer. The purpose of this quantitative descriptive study was to assess skin cancer knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors among college-age students. Guided by Pender’s Health Promotion Model, a cross-sectional survey was distributed to 208 college students between the ages of 18 and 30 years. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 30 and summarized with descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages. The findings of the study indicated most participants recognized UV exposure as the primary cause of skin cancer (88.7%) and agreed that skin cancer poses a serious health risk for young adults (84.9%). More than half correctly identified the recommended sunscreen protection level (SPF 30; 55.2%) and the recommended sunscreen reapplication interval of every two hours (64.2%). Participants also demonstrated awareness of major skin cancer risk factors, including tanning bed use (90.1%) and frequent childhood sunburns (82.5%). However, preventive behaviors remained inconsistent. More than half of participants (51.9%) reported experiencing at least one sunburn during the previous year, 49.5% reported only occasional use of sun-protective clothing, and over half (51.9%) reported that having tanned skin made them feel more attractive. Additionally, 53.3% indicated they would be more likely to use sunscreen if it were recommended or prescribed by a healthcare provider. The findings of the study also indicated a gap between knowledge and the consistent use of sun-protective behaviors among college students. These results support the need for targeted educational interventions and counseling for healthcare providers to improve adherence to evidence-based skin cancer prevention practices. Advanced practice nurses are in a position to provide education, encourage behavior change, and promote early detection strategies to reduce the incidence and long-term burden of skin cancer among young adults.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Degree Date

2026

First Advisor

Dr. Sueanne Davidson

Document Type

Thesis

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