NCT07830394 · University of Utah
Mobile Sun Health Intervention EnabLing Daily Protection
(mSHIELD)
What this study is about
The overall purpose of this proposal is to refine a mobile-health (mHealth) system to reduce excessive unprotected sun exposure among young adults. Participants will complete a 4-week intervention with all intervention components delivered through the mHealth application.
View original scientific description
The overall purpose of this proposal is to refine a mobile-health (mHealth) system to reduce excessive unprotected sun exposure among young adults. Participants will complete a 4-week intervention with all intervention components delivered through the mHealth application. Intervention components include Text Message Reminders, Sun Protection Education Modules, Action Planning Module, and UV Radiation (UVR) Weather Information.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Text Message Reminders
Participants will receive text message reminders twice a week. These messages will remind participants to use sunscreen or other forms of sun protection and will include brief facts about sun safety and environmental risks.
BEHAVIORAL
Sun Protection Education Modules
The education section consists of 5 modules on sun protection basics, ultraviolet (UV) exposure, skin health, sunscreen use, and tanning. Each module takes about 5 to 10 minutes to read.
BEHAVIORAL
Action Planning Module
The app will guide participants through creating a specific plan for using sun protection during a routine outdoor activity. Completing an action plan takes about 5 minutes. Participants will be asked to complete two action plans during the study and prompted to review these plans weekly.
BEHAVIORAL
UV Radiation (UVR) Weather Information
The UVR Weather feature displays information similar to what is available in many weather apps, with a focus on the sunburn risk hours. The display also shows different levels of UV risk throughout the day and indicates the current UV risk based on real-time UV Index. Participants will receive a daily notification summarizing the UV information for that day.
Primary outcome measures
Proportion of Participants with a Clinically Significant Impact
Time frame: up to 2 months from baseline
To determine whether a prototype mHealth system improves use of sun protection strategies among young adults. Data at the one-month post-intervention surveys will be analyzed and compared to baseline values. For this study, the criteria for a clinically significant impact will be that a participant reports no sunburns and now frequently uses sunscreen and at least one other sun protection method during outdoor time. This outcome measure will report the proportion of participants with a clinically significant impact.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Individual is at least 18 years old; AND
- Individual reports having at least one sunburn in the last year; AND/OR
- Individual reports using sunscreen plus one or more other sun protection behavior (protective clothing, shade, etc.) infrequently (i.e. never/seldom/sometimes)
Exclusion criteria
- Individual does not speak/read English; AND/OR
- Individual reports a personal history of skin cancer
Where
- Salt Lake City, Utah
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations