Introducing nudging with our smart sunscreen dispensers, and innovative approach to skin cancer prevention. Discover our research findings in collaboration with Catholic University of Leuven (KUL).
At Sundo, we are committed to changing the global outlook on UV prevention by developing innovative solutions that encourage healthier behaviors. In line with this mission, we conducted a research study in 2023 to explore the effectiveness of nudging in increasing sunscreen usage. This blog post delves into the concept of nudging, the specific nudge applied by Sundo, the results of this joint research with KU Leuven, and its broader implications.
Understanding nudging
Nudging is a concept popularized by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein in their book "Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness." It refers to subtle interventions that steer people towards better decisions without restricting their freedom of choice. These interventions can significantly influence behavior in a predictable way by leveraging psychological and social cues.
The nudge we implemented
Sundo's sunscreen dispensers were equipped with a nudge designed to increase their usage. The intervention involved installing an LED counter that displayed the number of people who had used the dispenser that day. This real-time feedback was intended to leverage social norms, encouraging others to follow suit and use the sunscreen.
The nudge was strategically implemented in high-traffic areas across various locations in Flanders, including beaches and swimming pools. By emphasizing the behavior of previous users, Sundo aimed to create a ripple effect, prompting more individuals to apply sunscreen.
The study was conducted from April to September 2023 across six locations in Flanders (Belgium), from the beach to outdoor swimming pools, covering many public areas with a high amount of foot traffic.
Research findings
The research, conducted as part of an interrupted time series study (ITS), analyzed the effect of this nudge on sunscreen usage across six locations in Flanders. Using advanced machine learning models like generalized random forest and causal impact time series, the study accounted for variables such as weather conditions, location, and time.
- Kortrijk: Daily sunscreen usage increased by 274%
- Ghent (Blaarmeersen): Daily sunscreen usage increased by 58%
- Ostend Beach: Daily sunscreen usage increased by 230%
- Nieuwpoort: Daily sunscreen usage increased by 180%
- Koksijde: Daily sunscreen usage increased by 111%
- Knokke: Daily sunscreen usage increased by 32%
The findings from this study have important implications for public health strategies, particularly in skin cancer prevention. By demonstrating that a simple, cost-effective nudge can lead to substantial increases in sunscreen usage, the research supports the broader adoption of nudging techniques in public health campaigns.
Moreover, we managed to prove that the nudge was even more effective during days with high uv radiation and high temperature, in other words during days when skin care is most important.
Conclusion
The integration of a nudge in Sundo's sunscreen dispensers has proven to be an effective strategy in promoting healthier behavior among the public. This research not only showcases the potential of nudging in enhancing public health initiatives but also provides a blueprint for future interventions aimed at combating skin cancer.
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