Investigating Skin Cancer Risk and Sun Safety Practices Among LGBTQ+ Communities in Canada
Background: Skin cancer prevention relies on effective sun safety practices. Previous studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals exhibit lower sunscreen use and higher tanning bed usage compared to their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. This study is the first to assess skin cancer risk factors, sun-protect...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2024-12-01
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| Series: | Current Oncology |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1718-7729/31/12/593 |
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| Summary: | Background: Skin cancer prevention relies on effective sun safety practices. Previous studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals exhibit lower sunscreen use and higher tanning bed usage compared to their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. This study is the first to assess skin cancer risk factors, sun-protective behaviors, and skin cancer concerns among LGBTQ+ individuals across Canada. Methods: A national survey study was conducted between July 2020 and March 2024 and included LGBTQ+ respondents aged ≥ 16 years who had completed the survey. Responses were summarized using frequency counts/percentages for categorical variables and means/standard deviations for continuous variables. Logistic regression models were used to calculate age- and gender-adjusted odds ratios for subgroup analyses. Results: Of the 700 LGBTQ+ participants included (59.3% women; median age 38 years), the majority had a Fitzpatrick skin phototype (FSP) I–III (76.4%). Concerningly, 60% reported >10 lifetime sunburns, 58% reported ≥1 blistering sunburn, 34% had used a tanning bed ≥1 time in their lifetime, and 69% reported having a tan in the last 12 months. Sunscreen was worn regularly by only half of the respondents, and half of the participants agreed or strongly agreed with “I look better and/or healthier with a tan”. Additional comparisons are presented based on gender, FSP, education, and income. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need for public health campaigns tailored to the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing culturally sensitive sun safety education, particularly for LGBTQ+ men, individuals with FSP IV–VI, and those with lower education levels, to help reduce future skin cancer risk. |
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| ISSN: | 1198-0052 1718-7729 |