Sunscreen knowledge survey of RBG staff

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world contributing over 1,700 deaths
per year1. People in Melbourne need sun protection from September to April when the UV Index
is 3 or above2 (see Table 1, Appendix I). The use of sunscreen is an important preventative
measure to help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer and premature skin ageing.
Topical sunscreens are designed to block and or absorb ultra violet (UV) sun radiations. Broad
spectrum sunscreen filters both UVA and UVB radiation. All sunscreens labeled sun protection
factor (SPF) 30+ work well and filter around 97% of UV radiation3. However, many people apply
too little sunscreen and usually get less than half the protection stated on the product label. The
average-sized adult should apply 35 ml of sunscreen for one full body application before 30
minutes going outside and reapplied it every two hours4.
Price is not always an indication of quality. It should be selected on the basis of skin type and
outdoor activity as different sunscreens contain the different ingredients. Also checking and
following the use by' date stated on the packaging is important.
Many studies have examined behavioral patterns related to sunscreen use

5, 6

, however, little is

known regarding the level of sunscreen knowledge. As the behavioral patterns are partially
influenced by knowledge, the Individuals who lack knowledge may be less motivated to use
sunscreens. Furthermore, motivated individuals who lack the knowledge may use sunscreen
inappropriately. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess general sunscreen knowledge in a
sample of Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG) staff so as to introduce a sun protection program for
employees.
Key Objectives:
To assess general sunscreen knowledge of the employees
To determine factors associated with their sunscreen purchasing decisions.

The research questions for this study would be focused on respondents familiarity and
comprehension of sunscreen terminology, application and efficacy claims. The survey would
comprise of 17 questions, which would be categorized into three main sections: (1) general
information (attributes); (2) sunscreen knowledge; and (3) sunscreen purchasing factors.

Appendix A

Table 1
UV Index in selected Australian cities averaged over the days in each month *
Location
Darwin
Brisbane
Perth
Sydney
Adelaide
Melbourne
Hobart

Jan
11
11
11
10
11
9
8

Feb
12
10
10
9
10
9
7

Mar
11
9
8
7
7
6
4

Apr
6
6
5
5
5
4
3

May
8
4
3
3
2
2
1

June
7
3
2
2
2
1
1

July
7
3
2
2
2
1
1

Aug
9
5
4
3
2
2
2

Sept
11
7
6
5
5
4
3

Oct
11
8
8
7
7
6
4

Nov
11
10
9
8
9
8
6

Dec
10
11
10
8
10
9
7

*Shaded areas are months of the year when UV is less than 3 and sun protection not required

Source: Table is from Gies et al. (2004)