Optimizing Texting Interventions for Melanoma Prevention and Early Detection: A Latin Square Crossover RCT

Introduction Text messaging is an effective way to reach large populations with health promotion support. This study aims establish the optimal text intervention achieve behavior change in young adults at risk of skin cancer. Study Design Latin square crossover RCT. Setting/participants Participants were women and men aged 18–40 years living Queensland, Australia who owned a smartphone had ≥2 cancer factors. Intervention enrolled from December 2018 February 2019 completed eligibility survey. Eligible participants randomized 4 different message interventions using design varying personalization, interactivity, frequency (February 2019‒July 2019). Each lasted for 1 month; between interventions, 1-week washout period which they online questionnaire. 6-month follow-up survey January 2020. Main outcome measures Measures included self-reported sun protection habits sunburns. Results A total 277 (71.2% response rate) follow-up. The index was significantly higher all (p<0.01 each intervention) than baseline, similar improvements among (p=0.27). Sunburn rates decreased over time intervention), achieving reductions sunburn during periods (p=0.78). Overall, 40.3% baseline 7.0% end intervention, follow-up, it remained below levels 23.5% (p<0.01). Conclusions Regular result increased adults. Trial registration registered Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001299291.