Evaluating Sun Safety Practices and Skin Cancer Awareness in Nunavik Inuit Communities: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Background:

Episodic sun exposures/sunburns are critical risk factors for cutaneous melanoma (CM) and basal cell carcinoma. Inuit communities in Canada represent an important emerging population at risk for skin cancers as they face specific, high latitude ultraviolet (UV) exposure risks due to geographic factors and climate change, yet little is known about their sun- protective behaviors and CM risk perceptions.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate sun protection and skin cancer awareness in Inuit communities of Nunavik.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 4 Nunavik communities during summer 2024. Participants aged ≥16 self-identified as Inuit and those who completed the Sun Exposure and Behavior Inventory were included. Demographic data, UV exposure, sun protection habits, and skin cancer concerns were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

Results:

Among 541 Inuit participants (mean age 39.9 years; 63.4% female), use of sunscreen (19.5% of respondents), hats (31.5%), and shade (28.7%) was low. Sunglasses (56.3%) and long sleeves (62.1%) were the most common protective measures. Nearly half (48.1%) reported checking their skin for moles, while 40% or more were unsure whether CM could be fatal or preventable. Males and individuals with less education reported lower awareness and fewer protective behaviors.

Conclusions:

Inuit communities in Nunavik demonstrate relatively low engagement with sun-protective practices and limited skin cancer awareness despite increasing UV exposure. Targeted, culturally appropriate health education initiatives are needed to support skin cancer prevention in this region.

Keywords

sun exposure sunburn skin cancer Inuit Indigenous

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