Effectiveness of a Targeted, Peer-Driven Skin Cancer Prevention Program for Lifeguards

Abstract

Lifeguards working at outdoor pools typically receive high amounts of sun exposure, increasing their risk for developing skin cancer. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a targeted, peer-driven intervention for skin cancer prevention among lifeguards. Nine pools received the targeted intervention, Pool Cool Plus, and five received the standard Pool Cool prevention program. Lifeguards completed surveys at the begin- ning and end of the summer. Lifeguards in both the targeted intervention and standard program groups increased their sun safety practices and reported more sun-safe pool policies and environments. Sunburn rates decreased among lifeguards participating in Pool Cool Plus. Future research should test the feasibility and effectiveness of dis- seminating the Pool Cool Plus program. More