Sun sensitivity was significantly associated with a higher sunburn prevalence, independent of race/ethnicity, according to a recent study, suggesting a need to consider sun sensitivity when identifying target demographic groups for sun safety interventions. In a cross-sectional study using a nationally representative sample of US adults from the 2015 National Health Interview Survey–Cancer Control Supplement, household interviews of civilian, noninstitutionalized US adults were conducted throughout 2015 in person and completed by telephone when necessary. Researchers found:

• A total of 31,162 respondents (mean [SD] age, 47.0 [0.36] years; 13,932 male [44.7%] and 17,230 female [55.3%]) were included in the analyses, with 34.2% experiencing sunburn in 2015.
• Sunburn prevalence was higher among younger age groups (51.2% in adults aged 18-29 years), non-Hispanic white individuals (42.5%), and those with sun-sensitive skin (50.2%).
• However, sunburn was also prevalent among black (13.2%) and Hispanic (29.7%) individuals, demographic groups that are often considered to be at low risk of skin cancer.
• Sun avoidance behaviors (seeking shade and not going in the sun) were significantly (39.5% vs 35.1%) associated with a lower prevalence of sunburn.