Predictors of Sun-Protective Practices among Iranian Female College Students: Application of Protection Motivation Theory

Abstract

Purpose: Given the importance of sun protection in the prevention of skin cancer, this study was designedto determine predictors of sun-protective practices among a sample of Iranian female college students based onprotection motivation theory (PMT) variables. Materials and <br/><b>Methods</b>: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 201female college students in Iran University of Medical Sciences were selected. Demographic and PMT variableswere assessed with a 67-item questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was used to identify demographic and PMTvariables that were associated with sun-protective practices and intention. <br/><b>Results</b>: one percent of participantsalways wore a hat with a brim, 3.5% gloves and 15.9% sunglasses while outdoors. Only 10.9% regularly hadtheir skin checked by a doctor. Perceived rewards, response efficacy, fear, self-efficacy and marital status werethe five variables which could predict 39% variance of participants intention to perform sun-protective practices.Also, intention and response cost explained 31% of the variance of sun-protective practices. <br/><b>Conclusions</b>: Thesepredictive variables may be used to develop theory-based education interventions interventions to prevent skincancer among college students.