Background: The incidence of skin cancer among Danes is one of the highest in the world. Most skin cancers are, however, avoidable with sun protection and reduction of exposure. A qualitative study was conducted to explore the influence of biofeedback about skin DNA damage on Danish beach holiday travelers' perception of risk of developing skin cancer and motivations for behavior change.
Methods: The study included 20 participants aged 36-56 years, travelling to destinations with a high UV-index in February/March 2023. A new technology for detecting skin DNA damage in urine was used. Each participant was required to provide urine samples before and after travelling on holiday and participate in an interview about risk perceptions. The interviews included the disclosure of DNA damage obtained during the holiday. Risk perceptions were assessed using a scale before and after biofeedback.
Results: We identified key elements affecting perceived susceptibility of skin cancer as well as central barriers for behavior change. The intervention increased risk perceptions for 35% of participants, and 30% expressed intentions to adopt more sun protective practices. However, most participants’ perceived susceptibility to skin cancer did not change significantly, as the DNA damage still appeared too abstract. The findings suggest that biofeedback can increase risk perceptions related to skin cancer and initiate intended behavior change for some. We learned that in order to increase sun protective practices a quantification of the individual DNA damage should be included in the biofeedback thereby making the assessed risk more relatable and personally relevant.