Using structural equation modeling to examine factors that influence sunburn frequency and severity among adults living in Canada

This study uses structural equation modeling to examine hypothesized relati onships between sunburn and physical characteristics and potentially modifi able behavior. The analysis was based on self-reported data collected from a randomly selected national sample of Canadian adults. An initial model wa s tested with 50% of the cases (n = 1,408); the remaining cases (n = 1,298) were reserved for confirmatory testing. After the initial model failed, th eoretically plausible effects were added incrementally to improve overall m odel fit. The initial model yielded: chi (2)((68 d.f.)) = 3199.41 (P < .001 ) and the AGFI = .56. With 32 added effects, a fit model resulted in: chi ( 2)((36 d.f.)) = 394.35 (P < .001), AGFI = 0.87, and IFI = 0.91 (the Critica l-N was 210). Model fit was confirmed. Suntanning, failure to wear protecti ve clothing, and sun exposure were associated with the frequency of severit y-adjusted sunburns. Sunscreen use was not associated with sunburn frequenc y-severity.