A randomised controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of Facebook compared to leaflets in raising awareness of melanoma and harmful sun-related behaviour among young adults

This study describes a randomised control trial investigating whether printed leaflets or social media are more effective in increasing knowledge of the risks of sun exposure and melanoma in people aged 18–29. The study participants were 18–29-year-old university students or graduates, recruited in London. A baseline level of knowledge was measured using the Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge questionnaire. Study participants were then randomised into either a leaflet arm or Facebook arm. Identical information was delivered through a SunSafe campaign via either posted leaflets or Facebook during a 10-day exposure window. Following this, participants repeated the Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge questionnaire. Following the SunSafe intervention, the mean knowledge score improved in both groups to a statistically significant degree (Facebook = 1.82, leaflets = 3.04, P 
Source: European Journal of Cancer Prevention - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Skin Cancer Source Type: research