2 What’s New This Year? Over the past year, CDC researchers have led or collaborated on numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications, bringing continued attention to skin cancer prevention as a public health priority. Below are some highlights. Sun-Safety Practices Are Uncommon In Schools JAMA Dermatology published an article in March 2017 on the prevalence of sun-safety practices in US schools.2 The findings suggest that most schools have insufficient sun-safety practices for children and adolescents and point to a need for interventions to increase adoption of such practices among schools. Adults Who Indoor Tan or Had a Recent Sunburn Are More Likely to Tan Outdoors An article published in Preventive Medicine in August 2017 described associations among demographic characteristics, behaviors, and beliefs related to skin cancer risk and outdoor tanning behaviors.3 Outdoor tanning was more prevalent among women, nonHispanic white individuals, and those aged 18–29 years compared with other demographic groups. Indoor tanners and those with a recent sunburn were also more likely to tan outdoors. Clinical Counseling on Sun Protection Is Low Among Pediatricians In December 2017, Pediatrics published an article indicating that rates of clinical counseling on sun protection and avoiding indoor tanning are low among pediatricians, with time constraints being the most frequently reported barrier.4 Melanoma Rates on the Rise among Non-Hispanic White Adults Aged 55+ A research letter published in JAMA Dermatology in January 2018 examined the latest national data on melanoma incidence trends among non-Hispanic white individuals.5 More than 70% of the melanoma cases were diagnosed in adults aged 55 years or older. During 2005–2014, melanoma incidence rates increased among non-Hispanic white adults aged 55 years or older and decreased among nonHispanic white individuals under the age of 45.
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