Sun exposure of young children while at day care.

Sun exposure in childhood has been implicated as a risk factor for the development of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers. As an increasing number of young children are cared for in day-care centers, we were interested in examining the sun-protection practices in this setting. In our study of day-care centers, we found that while most day-care center staff were aware of the adverse effect of excess sun exposure and the need for sun protection, the use of sunscreen and protective clothing and avoidance of midday sun were limited. We conclude that intensive education of day-care center staff and parents regarding sun exposure and sun protection is necessary if we are to attempt to reduce the frequency of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer.