Effects of educational intervention on promoting skin cancer preventive behaviors and its predisposing factors among female students in Yazd city: An application of some PRECEDE Model constructs

Skin cancer is the third prevalent cause of mortality and morbidity and the second widespread cancer based on organ involvement in Yazd province. This study aimed to assess the effects of educational intervention on promoting skin cancer preventive behaviors of female students based on of some PRECEDE Model constructs.

Semi- experimental interventional study with 75 sample size in each group performing random sampling from Yazd universities was implemented. Validity and reliability of researcher made scales were approved. Questionnaires filled by participants and data were analyzed. Based on problem and weakness of preventive skin cancer and its predisposing factors adoption analysis was distinguished and educational intervention planned and performed. Educational strategy was compromised face to face and group discussion. After three months follow up, data using descriptive and inferential statistics were analyzed. Significance level was set less than 0.05.

Before intervention, predisposing factors was in the moderate level (%56.6) [Knowledge in moderate (%51.6), attitude relatively good (%66.1)] and preventive behavior adoption was poor (%48). Knowledge with attitude and practice, also attitude with practice had direct significant correlation. Knowledge and attitude as predisposing factor accounted for 25.1% of the variation of skin cancer preventive behavior changes with the attitude as the strongest predictor.

Based on more attitude power in predicting skin cancer preventing behavior, more attention to attitude changes in order to prevent skin cancer epidemic is suggested. It seems that The PRECEDE model is the effective model in planning interventional programs to promote skin cancer preventive behaviors