The Sun Observation Study is a serial, cross-sectional observation study of sun protection behaviours at outdoor recreation settings including parks, beaches/pools, tennis courts, golf courses and busy outdoor streets and cafes in Melbourne. Originally commenced in 1992, it is conducted semi-annually on weekends over mid to late summer, with up to 1,000 observations made at each setting. Intercept interviews may be used to enhance the observational data with self-reported information on sunscreen use. The study enables monitoring of sun protection trends. Observational data collected through this study may also be compared to self-reported survey data and used to evaluate SunSmart program activities. Some research output is prepared for peer-reviewed journal publications.
CBRC staff
Dr Clover Maitland, Tegan Nuss, Dr Suzanne Dobbinson, Maree Scully, Ass Prof Helen Dixon
Collaborators
SunSmart Victoria
Funding
Cancer Council Victoria
Years
1992 - present