Patterns in sun exposure and sunscreen use among Puertorrican adolescents.

A survey of 245 adolescents visiting different San Juan area beaches was conducted to determine the frequency with which they used sunscreens lotions. Seventy-two percent of the teenager in the survey stated that they spent most weekends in the sun; however, only 68% always used sunscreen, while 31% never did. Prevalence factors found to be associated with the sunscreen use included male sex (odd ratio = 1.01 P < 0.01), having a friend who routinely used the lotion (odds ratio = 0.06, P < 0.05), and having parents who strongly recommend the sunscreen use, (odds ratio = o.g, P > 0.05). This survey substantiates poor compliance with sunscreen lotion use by teenagers despite increasing evidence of the dangers of sun exposure.