illustrates how sun protection practices develop and change. It is valuable to understand that as individuals enter adolescence, others easily influence sun practices.
Education and Awareness Genetic and environmental risk factors for developing melanoma are well established. A major objective of healthcare is to ensure the public is aware and educated of these risks. In a recent study conducted by Robert et al. (2015), the majority of individuals surveyed were able to reasonably estimate their risk for developing melanoma based on family history, a large number of nevi and a fair skin phenotype. While individuals understood their risk, sun exposure and lack of sun protection was found. This study demonstrates that while many understand the
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Providers are better able to understand the relationships between healthcare problems and solutions that best correlate with specific populations. In regards to melanoma awareness, a framework relating education and healthcare practices to the Caucasian population is needed. For the purpose of this paper, the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM) is discussed, relating how cessation of a risky behavior requires deliberate steps to occur out of the conscious awareness. In regards to changes in screening recommendations, Kurt Lewin’s theory of change is discussed.
PAPM
The PAPM, which was first discussed in 1988, attempts to explain how an individual comes to decisions to take action (Weinstein, Sandman, & Blalock, 2008). Seven stages are identified along a path from lack of awareness to action (See Appendix A).
In stage one, an individual is unaware of the health issue. If individuals have not heard of a potential hazard or potential precaution, opinions cannot be formed (Weinstein, Sandman, & Blalock, 2008). Patients may have heard of melanoma but may be unfamiliar with how it may threaten their own lives. Many may be unaware of the risk factors and ways to reduce the likelihood of developing
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Individuals have become engaged by the health issue and are considering their response (Weinstein, Sandman, & Blalock, 2008). The decision making process can result in one of three outcomes. Patients may suspend judgment on melanoma prevention interventions and remain in stage three. They may decide not to engage in melanoma prevention interventions (stage four), halting the process. Or, they may decide to adopt melanoma prevention interventions (stage five).
In stage four, individuals have decided not to make a change. This decision is often times determined by an individuals perceived susceptibility to the health issue (Weinstein, Sandman, & Blalock, 2008). Patients who have deemed themselves unlikely to develop melanoma may decide not partake in prevention interventions. Conversely, patients who have deemed themselves very likely to develop melanoma may feel that prevention interventions are of no use. This stage halts the process but with continued education, patients may eventually move out of this