FLARE Intervention Shows Limited Effectiveness in Preventing Sunburns in Children of Melanoma Survivors
A recent study reveals that a family-based intervention did not significantly reduce sunburn rates in children of melanoma survivors despite improved sun protection behaviors.
Children of melanoma survivors have double the risk of developing melanoma.
The FLARE intervention improved protective behaviors but did not significantly reduce sunburn rates over time.
The study involved 364 parent-child pairs and was conducted from January 2020 to June 2024.
A recent study published in JAMA Dermatology has found that the FLARE (family, lifestyles, actions, and risk education) intervention did not effectively prevent sunburn in children of melanoma survivors. This demographic is at a heightened risk, with studies indicating they face twice the likelihood of developing melanoma compared to their peers. Despite this increased risk, many do not consistently engage in sun protection practices.
The research, which spanned from January 2020 to June 2024, involved participants identified through the Utah Cancer Registry and other local health resources. Eligible participants included parents with a confirmed history of melanoma and children aged 8 to 17 who had experienced at least one sunburn in the previous year. A total of 364 parent-child pairs were enrolled, with 180 assigned to the FLARE intervention and 184 to a control group.
Both groups received educational materials and participated in online modules and telehealth sessions. The FLARE group received tailored education based on social cognitive theory, focusing on familial risk and sun protection strategies. Although FLARE participants reported an average of 0.17 fewer sunburns in the month following the intervention and exhibited increased sun-protective behaviors, these changes did not translate into a significant reduction in sunburn rates over time.
At the second assessment, the incidence of one sunburn was reported at 17.6% for the FLARE group and 17.1% for the control group, while rates for two or more sunburns were 5.2% and 11.6%, respectively. The researchers noted that despite improvements in protective behaviors, there was no significant decrease in intentional or unintentional tanning among FLARE participants compared to controls.
The study concludes that while family-based interventions can enhance preventive behaviors, additional strategies may be necessary to achieve sustained reductions in sunburn rates among children at elevated risk for melanoma. The research was supported by the American Cancer Society, and some authors disclosed conflicts of interest.
