Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of High School Students in Jabriel Township Regarding Sunscreen Use

Background: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses significant health risks, including skin cancer, premature aging, and ocular damage. Sunscreen use is one of the most effective preventive strategies against UV-related harm. However, the level of awareness and protective behaviors among adolescents in developing countries remains insufficiently studied.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of high school students in Jabriel Township regarding sunscreen use, and to examine the relationships between these variables and demographic characteristics.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted among 240 high school students from six schools in Jabriel Township. A stratified random sampling method was employed. Data were collected using a structured, validated questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha = 0.74) consisting of four sections: demographics (7 items), knowledge (10 items), attitude (9 items), and practice (9 items). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and chi-square tests at a significance level of 0.05.

Results: The majority of students (78.17%) demonstrated moderate knowledge, 66.52% had a moderate attitude, and 68.26% exhibited moderate practice regarding sunscreen use. No statistically significant relationships were found between knowledge, attitude, and practice (P > 0.05). Similarly, demographic variables showed no significant association with KAP scores.

Conclusion: Despite moderate knowledge levels, students' attitudes and practices regarding sunscreen use remain suboptimal. Targeted health education programs are recommended to bridge the gap between knowledge and protective behavior among adolescents.