The Study of Factors Relevant to Skin Cancer Preventive Behavior in Female High School Students in Yazd Based on Protection Motivation

摘要

Introduction: Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in Yazd, and childhood and adolescence are particularly important time for preventing later skin cancer risk. The goal of this study is to assess the factors relevant to skin cancer preventive behavior in female high school students in Yazd based on protection motivation theory. Methods: Participants in this cross- sectional study were 360 female students from 4 high schools in Yazd. Data were gathered through a self- report questionnaire and were analyzed using SPSS, and statistical tests of ANOVA, T-test, Pearson correlation and regression. Results: Pearson correlation coefficient showed that a significant positive correlation exists between behaviors and perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, fear, self- efficacy, response efficacy and coping-appraisal, and a significant negative correlation exists between behaviors and response cost, reward and perceived threat (P<0.01). Two cognitive intermediary processes of threat appraisal and coping-appraisal could predict 54% of protection motivation where threat appraisal was a stronger predictor (β=0.335). Also, protection motivation could predict 41% of preventive behavior. Conclusion: Results of this study support the effectiveness of PMT variables for prediction of skin cancer prevention behaviors in subjects