A Sun Protection Survey of New England Fishermen

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 1 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer diagnosed annually and an estimated 53,600 cases of melanoma and 7400 deaths expected during the year 2002. Excess exposure to UV radiation has long been linked to both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers. Fishing is a popular sport in the United States, and one with excessive sun exposure. Results of a survey of recreational fishermen conducted at the 23rd Annual Eastern Fishing & Outdoor Exposition found that sun protection attitudes and practices were poor or inadequate. I recommend that a tailored sun protection intervention program should take into account age, gender, and skin type, as well as the unique obstacles faced by fishermen.