Purpose. We reviewed the literature on sun protection beliefs in Hispanics living in the United States to explore what challenges are faced by area of research. Method. A review of PubMED, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases was performed. Studies were published in peer-reviewed journals (in all years available) and written in English. The search terms used were [“skin cancer” OR “sun protection”] AND [“Latino” OR “Hispanic”] AND “beliefs.” Eligible papers were included in the final analysis after meeting the following inclusion criteria: (1) the records had to quantitatively examine and report sun protection beliefs in Hispanics, (2) the number of Hispanic participants in the sample had to be clearly specified, and (3) studies reporting differences in sun protection beliefs between Hispanics and other racial and ethnic groups were included in the review. Results. Of the 92 articles identified, 11 met inclusion criteria and addressed sun protection beliefs regarding skin cancer seriousness and susceptibility, and benefits and barriers of sun protection and skin cancer risk behaviors. Characteristics of studies and results were examined. Conclusion. There is insufficient evidence to determine a pattern of sun protection beliefs among Hispanics in the United States. More quality studies are needed which focus on sun protection beliefs in Hispanics. 1. Introduction Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States (US). It is estimated that close to 4 million skin cancer diagnoses (including basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas) are made every year [1]. Melanoma (an aggressive form of skin cancer) is diagnosed in more than 70,000 persons every year, creating a high health and economic burden with an estimated annual cost of $3.5 billion [2]. Risk factors for skin cancer include sun sensitivity (sunburning easily, difficulty tanning), a history of excessive sun exposure, sunburns, use of artificial tanning, and a past history of skin cancer [1]. Most of skin cancer cases could be prevented by protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure and avoiding indoor tanning. Results from an analysis of national data showed that the majority of the US population reported infrequent incidence of sun protection behaviors [3]. Characteristics of groups reporting lower incidence of sun protection include being young (under the age of 40), having a lower education level, being a smoker or a risky drinker, and being less sensitive to the sun [3]. Health research should focus on the identification of psychosocial and modifiable variables to promote sun protection
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