Effectiveness of a Nurse-Led, WhatsApp-Based, Interactive Educational Intervention on Skin Cancer Knowledge and Sun Protection Behaviors: A Randomized, Controlled, Solomon Four-Group Study

Bebiş, Hatice; Gül, Züleyha

doi:10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.5.1725

Effectiveness of a Nurse-Led, WhatsApp-Based, Interactive Educational Intervention on Skin Cancer Knowledge and Sun Protection Behaviors: A Randomized, Controlled, Solomon Four-Group Study

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

Eastern Mediterranean University, 99628 Famagusta, North Cyprus, Turkiye.

10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.5.1725

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of an interactive educational intervention delivered via WhatsApp on improving community-dwelling women ‘s knowledge of skin cancer and sun protection behaviors. The study was conducted using a randomized, controlled experimental design based on the Solomon four-group model. Methods: A randomized, controlled trial was conducted with 152 female participants assigned to four groups based on the Solomon design (two experimental, two control). One experimental and one control group were pre-tested, while the others were not. The experimental groups received structured, interactive education via WhatsApp for twelve weeks. Outcomes were measured using validated tools to assess skin cancer knowledge and sun protection behaviors. Data were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive and non-parametric tests. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test indicated a non-normal distribution; therefore, Wilcoxon and Mann–Whitney U tests were applied. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Post-test scores showed significant improvements in knowledge and sun protection behaviors in the intervention groups compared to controls (p<0.05). No significant pre-test effect was detected, supporting the intervention’s internal validity. The findings indicate that WhatsApp-based interactive education effectively enhances health literacy and sun protection behaviors. Conclusion: The results demonstrate the efficacy of a randomized, controlled educational intervention using mobile technology to enhance knowledge and health-related behavior. This approach provides a low-cost, scalable method for community-based health promotion.

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