Question

case #6: the sun lover
a 16 - year - old lifeguard notices new dark moles and sunburns easily. they rarely use sunscreen or wear protective clothing, even during long summer shifts.

1. is this disease communicable or noncommunicable?

1. what disease might this be? (justify your answer)

1. how could it have been prevented?

1. what public health response would you recommend?

Explanation:

1. Non - communicable diseases are not spread from person to person. Since the condition is related to sun exposure (a non - infectious factor), it is non - communicable.
2. Skin cancer (melanoma is a likely type). New dark moles are a warning sign, and excessive sun exposure (without protection) is a major risk factor for skin cancer.
3. Using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing (such as wide - brimmed hats, long - sleeved shirts), and avoiding prolonged sun exposure during peak hours (e.g., 10 am - 4 pm).
4. Public health campaigns to raise awareness about sun safety. This could include educational programs in schools, advertisements on social media and television about the importance of sun protection (e.g., "Slip! Slop! Slap! Seek! Slide!" campaigns: slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade, slide on sunglasses).

Answer:

1. Non - communicable.
2. Skin cancer (e.g., melanoma). Justification: New dark moles (a sign) and excessive sun exposure (risk factor).
3. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, avoid peak sun hours.
4. Public health campaigns for sun safety awareness.