College students' knowledge and attitudes about cancer and perceived risks of developing skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in the United States. Primary prevention practices for skin cancer are fully documented in the literature for reducing the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation on skin. Late adolescents, inherent to their young age and risk-taking behaviors, are more likely to sunbathe. The cancer attitudes and suntanning knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors among college students were examined. Gender-specific interventions for educating this age group are recommended.