Determinants of Sun Protection Behaviors among Students: A Path Analysis Based on the Protection Motivation Theory

Abstract Background: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun increases the risk of skin cancer. Understanding the factors that influence the adoption of preventive behaviors is crucial for designing effective interventions. This study utilized path analysis based on the Protection Motivation Theory to identify these factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 501 students randomly selected from elementary schools in Zahedan. Participants completed an online self-administered questionnaire that assessed constructs of the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), as well as demographic characteristics. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software to perform path analysis and predict sun protection behaviors Results: Among the participants, 46.1% reported wearing long-sleeved clothing, 24.0% wore wide-brimmed sun hats, 23.0% used sunglasses, 21.2% applied sunscreen, 14.6% sought shade, 13.0% had used sunscreen in the last month, and 8% reapplied sunscreen after washing their hands. The PMT accounted for 46% of the variance in protection motivation and 30% of the variance in sun protection behaviors. Self-efficacy emerged as the strongest predictor of protection motivation (ß .50, p< 0.001). Additionally, self-efficacy (ß .23, p< 0.001) and response efficacy (ß .20, p< 0.001) were the strongest predictors of sun protection behaviors. Conclusions: The PMT effectively predicts sun protection behaviors and interventions based on this theory can serve as a framework for skin cancer prevention interventions among students. Emphasizing self-efficacy to protect oneself from the harmful effects of UV rays should be a priority in programs aimed at promoting preventive behaviors among students.