People with Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP) have a genetic condition which stops their skin repairing damage from Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR). This means they are much more likely to develop potentially fatal skin cancers. The only way to reduce this damage is to rigorously protect the skin, by limiting UVR exposure. This done in a number of ways including: staying indoors; wearing protective clothing, sunscreen and glasses. People with XP can find it difficult to maintain this level of protection, putting themselves at risk. This research will test whether an intervention designed to enhance photoprotection activities is successful. It will use a randomised controlled trial design to compare the amount of UVR reaching the face, between participants receiving the intervention and those receiving standard clinical care. The amount of UVR reaching the face is important, as this is where people with XP develop most cancers. It is dependent on the overall level of exposure to UVR in the environment, and photoprotection used. The intervention involves a tailored conversation with the participant about their photoprotection practices. It will target both the overall exposure to UVR and the photoprotection used when outdoors, and will be conducted in 7 sessions with an intervention facilitator. The content will be dependent on the specific photoprotection behaviour being targeted (e.g., poor sunscreen application) and the reasons for poor photoprotection for each person. This could be low motivation related to doubts about the need to protect and concerns about protecting. Other barriers to protection might be lack of routines. The facilitator will provide information tailored to these beliefs and use other standard behaviour change techniques to encourage the development of "better" photoprotection habits. The investigators predict that the intervention group will have a lower mean daily dose of UVR to the face compared to the control group in two time periods in the summer months.
Age range
16 Years
Sex
ALL
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Mean daily dose of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) to the face using a dosimeter and diary.
Timeframe: It will measured in all participants for 21 days at 10 weeks post baseline