Resource provision and environmental change for the prevention of skin cancer: Systematic review of qualitative evidence from high-income countries

This paper presents the findings of a systematic review of qualitative studies from high-income (OECD) countries relating to sun protection and skin cancer, with a focus on barriers and facilitators for the following interventions: resource provision; environmental change; and multi-component interventions. Twenty-three study reports were included in the review. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis methodology with the Health Belief Model as a framework. The risk and potential severity of skin cancer are not seen as important concerns, and tanning which is not deliberate is seen as less dangerous. There are a number of social and practical barriers to the use of sun protection resources, including cost, inconvenience and social norms. There are important differences between age groups and between men and women in attitudes.