In 2000, 2003, 2005, 2008 but not 2010 and forward, respondents were shown a flashcard listing the response categories, which included, "Always," "Most of the time," "Sometimes," "Rarely" and "Never." In 2010 and forward, respondents were read the same response categories but not shown a flashcard.

The question wording changed slightly over time. In 2000 and 2003, the question asks about, "a very sunny day." In 2005, 2008, 2010, and 2015, the question asks about, "a warm sunny day." In 2020 forward, the question simply asks about "a sunny day."

The 2000 and 2005 Field Representative's Manuals provide the following definition for sunscreen:

The 2003 Field Representative's Manual provides a nearly identically worded definition for sunscreen. The 2003, 2008, 2010, and 2015 Field Representative's Manual provides a nearly identically worded definition for sunscreen but also adds the synonym "sunblock" to the definition. There is not a specific definition for sunscreen in 2020.

In all years, the Field Representative's Manual instructs interviewers not to read the choice, "don't go out in sun." Further, this choice does not appear on the flashcard that respondents are shown in years in which a flashcard is used. In other words, respondents are not given this choice, but it is an acceptable response.

For more information, please see SUN1HR.