ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Colombians are exposed year round to high doses of ultraviolet radiation. Although no reliable epidemiological data are available for the incidence of skin cancer, it is a frequent pathology not limited to advanced age classes. OBJECTIVE: The current study was done at elementary schools in Cali in zones categorized at socioeconomic levels 1 to 4 to evaluate the impact of a photo-education program for its effect on the knowledge and behavior of a group of elementary school children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five hundred forty-seven children from kindergarten to grade three were evaluated in 4 schools categorized in socioeconomic levels 1 to 4. The students were interviewed to evaluate their knowledge and behavior with regard to effects of UV exposure. One school rated at level 1-2 and one school at level 3-4 received education on UV protection. Other two schools, rated at levels 1-2 and 3-4 each received no education on UV protection. The questionnaire was repeated in the 4 schools, and a statistical analysis was done to evaluate the impact the education program had on educated and control groups. RESULTS: The children that received the education program showed statistically significant improvement in behavior and knowledge. The education was more effective in low socioeconomic level populations. CONCLUSIONS: Follow-up studies are required to evaluate how knowledge persists over time. The need of a public health campaign to educate children in skin cancer prevention is evident.
