1
|
Slavinsky V, Helmy J, Vroman J, Valdebran M. Solar ultraviolet radiation exposure in workers with outdoor occupations: a systematic review and call to action. Int J Dermatol 2024; 63:288-297. [PMID: 37853576 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Chronic solar ultraviolet radiation (sUVR) exposure leads to an increased incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) development, particularly when accumulated over decades. Workers in certain industries, such as construction, agriculture, postal workers, and the military, are at higher risk due to cumulative sUVR exposure in their line of work. By assessing the relationship between sUVR exposure in outdoor workers and their skin cancer risk and defining methods of prevention, clinicians can offer focused sun protection counseling to this unique population. PubMed was used to perform a literature review to address the following research questions: 1. How is ultraviolet radiation measured? 2. What is the modern utility of the ultraviolet index in modifying sun protection behaviors in outdoor industry workers? 3. What is the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer development in individuals working in outdoor occupations? 4. What is the prevalence of skin cancer among outdoor workers? 5. Is the number of nevi and solar lentigines elevated among individuals employed in outdoor occupations? The literature suggests that individuals in outdoor occupations are exposed to UV levels that often surpass safety limits for occupational UVR exposure, increasing their risk of developing skin cancer and precursor and pigmented lesions. Individuals in high-risk occupations experience significantly higher levels of sUVR exposure than their indoor worker counterparts, increasing their risk of malignant cutaneous transformation. Accordingly, these individuals must be counseled on effective solar protection methods, and employers should advocate for actionable change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John Helmy
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jenna Vroman
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Manuel Valdebran
- Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Paulo MS, Symanzik C, Ádam B, Gobba F, Kezic S, van der Molen HF, Peters CE, Rocholl M, Tenkate T, John SM, Loney T, Modenese A, Wittlich M. Risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma due to occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282664. [PMID: 36867594 PMCID: PMC9983864 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the most significant occupational carcinogenic exposure in terms of the number of workers exposed (i.e., outdoor workers). Consequently, solar UVR-induced skin cancers are among the most common forms of occupational malignancies that are potentially expected globally. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021295221) and aims to assess the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) associated to occupational solar UVR exposure. Systematic searches will be performed in three electronic literature databases (PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus). Further references will be retrieved by a manual search (e.g., in grey literature databases, internet search engines, and organizational websites). We will include cohort studies and case-control studies. Risk of Bias assessment will be conducted separately for case-control and cohort studies. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) will be used for the certainty of assessment. In case quantitative pooling is not feasible, a narrative synthesis of results will be performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marília Silva Paulo
- CHRC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Cara Symanzik
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine, and Health Theory, Osnabrück University, Institute for Interdisciplinary Dermatological Prevention and Rehabilitation (iDerm) at Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Balázs Ádam
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fabriziomaria Gobba
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Sanja Kezic
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Occupational and Public Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henk F. van der Molen
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Occupational and Public Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cheryl E. Peters
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- BC Cancer, Vancouver, Canada
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Marc Rocholl
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine, and Health Theory, Osnabrück University, Institute for Interdisciplinary Dermatological Prevention and Rehabilitation (iDerm) at Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Thomas Tenkate
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Swen Malte John
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine, and Health Theory, Osnabrück University, Institute for Interdisciplinary Dermatological Prevention and Rehabilitation (iDerm) at Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alberto Modenese
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marc Wittlich
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accidents Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Photoprotection in occupational dermatology. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2023:10.1007/s43630-023-00385-6. [PMID: 36853496 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-023-00385-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Skin cancer has become a substantial matter of public health and in the workplace, accounting for a significant share of all reported occupational diseases. The most important external factor in the development of skin cancer is exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation. Outdoor workers have already been identified as a high-risk category. The need for interventions to improve the sun protection behavior of outdoor workers has recently been understood. Outdoor workers' risk perceptions and attitudes toward sun protection methods are likely to influence practical sun protection behavior at work, and despite the fact that many workers have expressed interest in improving their sun protection behavior, outdoor workers' unique needs are still neglected. Occupational dermatology is predicted to become more concerned with photoprotection in the decades ahead. Preventive action against the rapidly increasing number skin cancer cases is in great demand around the globe. In terms of preventive measures, the full range of available options should be used as needed to address the current difficulties in a goal-oriented way. This will almost certainly only be achievable if preventative efforts on a collective and individual level are successfully paired with support from policymakers to inspire long-term change.
Collapse
|
4
|
Wittlich M, Westerhausen S, Strehl B, Versteeg H, Stöppelmann W. The GENESIS-UV study on ultraviolet radiation exposure levels in 250 occupations to foster epidemiological and legislative efforts to combat nonmelanoma skin cancer. Br J Dermatol 2023; 188:350-360. [PMID: 36635210 DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljac093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several hundred million of the 3 billion formally employed people worldwide are at risk from high levels of solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Chronic light damage to the skin can lead to nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), especially when irradiation is too high and is acquired for decades. However, data with uniform metrics, high resolution over time and in-depth occupational profiles are not available. OBJECTIVES To build a worldwide usable matrix of UVR exposure in occupations and to show use cases for the data. METHODS One thousand test persons were recruited to wear electronic data logger dosimeters during their working time for 7 months each. The measurements yielded 3.7 billion data points for around 48 000 days with high-quality data capture covering more than 250 occupations and 650 activities. Scientific evaluation of the data included daily and half-hourly means, geographical transfer calculations to the world, threshold exceedance quotas, transcriptome effects, and occupational disease estimates. RESULTS A compendium for global use is presented. In-depth analyses and the resulting implications for research have been elaborated to directly link exposure data to effects in the human body. Interestingly, the annual irradiances of the different occupations span a wide range of values: from about 650 to 50 standard erythemal doses, with different distributions over the months. Detailed exposure data per occupation were derived, and the risk on an occupational or activity basis assuming different exposure level quotas was quantified. This showed that, for example, in temperate latitudes, all activities with a duration of > 2 h outdoors are associated with increased NMSC risk. CONCLUSIONS We offer our work to enable sound studies on the nature of ultraviolet-induced skin cancer, dose-response relationships, intermittency of skin exposure, and derivation of limit values. Sociological studies on prevention are now possible. Practitioners may use the findings for their daily work with employees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Wittlich
- Department 'Accident Prevention: Digitalisation - Technologies'
| | | | - Benjamin Strehl
- Department 'Accident Prevention: Digitalisation - Technologies'
| | - Helmut Versteeg
- Department 'Exposure and Risk Assessment', Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Alte Heerstraße 111, 53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Wiho Stöppelmann
- Department 'Exposure and Risk Assessment', Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Alte Heerstraße 111, 53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
de Troya Martín M, Aguilar S, Aguilera-Arjona J, Rivas-Ruiz F, Rodríguez-Martínez A, de Castro-Maqueda G, Cambil-Martín J, de Gálvez-Aranda V, Blázquez-Sánchez N. Risk assessment of occupational skin cancer among outdoor workers in southern Spain: local pilot study. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:14-20. [PMID: 36424170 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main preventable cause of skin cancer. Outdoor workers, exposed to the sun for many hours throughout their working lives, are at special risk. The aim of this study is to determine occupational photoexposure and photoprotection among outdoor workers employed by a municipality in southern Spain. METHODS Cross-sectional descriptive study focusing on outdoor workers employed by the municipality of Fuengirola (in areas such as construction, gardening, urban cleaning and beach maintenance). The participants were monitored by personal dosimetry, participated in a dermatological check-up and answered a validated questionnaire (CHACES) on their habits, attitudes and knowledge related to sun exposure. RESULTS The median effective erythema dose of exposure to solar UV radiation during the working day (n=20) was 379.4 J/m2, equivalent to 3.8 standard erythema doses, almost 3 times higher than the recommended limits for an 8-hour workday. Skin examination (n=128) revealed the presence of actinic lentigines (79.7%), actinic keratoses (8.6%) and skin cancer (3.9%). The CHACES questionnaire (n=128) revealed a sunburn rate of 50.0%. Photoprotection practices were markedly deficient: only 16.7% of the survey respondents sought protection in the shade, 20.3% avoided exposure during the peak exposure hours and 33.1% applied sunscreen. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to evaluate UV radiation exposure, occupational sun protection practices, sunburn and actinic injuries of different outdoor workers in one of the sunniest regions of Spain and underlines the need for effective interventions to protect outdoor workers' health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sierra Aguilar
- Occupational Risk Prevention Service, Fuengirola City Council, Fuengirola, Spain
| | - José Aguilera-Arjona
- Photobiological Dermatology Laboratory, Medical Research Centre, Department of Medicine and Dermatology, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | | | | | - Guillermo de Castro-Maqueda
- Physical Education Department, Education Science Faculty, University of Cadiz, Cadiz, Spain.,Nursing Department, Health Science Faculty, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jacobo Cambil-Martín
- Nursing Department, Health Science Faculty, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Symanzik C, John SM. Sun protection and occupation: Current developments and perspectives for prevention of occupational skin cancer. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1110158. [PMID: 36620257 PMCID: PMC9816330 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1110158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A substantial proportion of all reported occupational illnesses are constituted by skin cancer, making this disease a serious public health issue. Solar ultra-violet radiation (UVR) exposure is the most significant external factor in the development of skin cancer, for which the broad occupational category of outdoor workers has already been identified as high-risk group. Sun protection by deploying adequate technical, organizational, and person-related measures has to be understood as a functional aspect of workplace safety. To prevent skin cancers brought on by-typically cumulative-solar UVR exposure, outdoor workers must considerably lower their occupationally acquired solar UVR doses. Estimating cumulative sun exposure in outdoor workers requires consideration of the level of solar UVR exposure, the tasks to be done in the sun, and the employees' solar UVR preventive measures. Recent studies have highlighted the necessity for measures to enhance outdoor workers' sun protection behavior. In the coming decades, occupational dermatology is expected to pay increasing attention to sun protection at work. Also, the field of dermato-oncology will likely be concerned with sky-rocketing incidences of occupational skin cancers. The complete range of available alternatives should be utilized in terms of preventive actions, which seems pivotal to handle the present and future challenges in a purposeful manner. This will almost definitely only be possible if politicians' support is effectively combined with communal and individual preventive actions in order to spur long-term transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cara Symanzik
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Dermatological Prevention and Rehabilitation (iDerm), Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany,Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Theory, Institute for Health Research and Education (IGB), Faculty of Human Sciences, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany,*Correspondence: Cara Symanzik ✉
| | - Swen Malte John
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Dermatological Prevention and Rehabilitation (iDerm), Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany,Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Theory, Institute for Health Research and Education (IGB), Faculty of Human Sciences, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Grifoni D, Betti G, Bogi A, Bramanti L, Chiarugi A, Gozzini B, Morabito M, Picciolo F, Sabatini F, Miligi L. Protective Measures From Solar Ultraviolet Radiation for Beach Lifeguards in Tuscany (Italy): Shade and Clothing Strategies. Saf Health Work 2022; 13:421-428. [PMID: 36579014 PMCID: PMC9772484 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation is a significant risk factor generally underestimated by outdoor workers and employers. Several studies have pointed out that occupational solar exposure increased eye and skin diseases with a considerable impact on the lives and productivity of affected workers.The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness against ultraviolet radiation of some measures recently undertaken for the protection of lifeguards in a coastal area of Tuscany. Methods Different shading structures (gazebos and beach umbrella) were tested during a sunny summer's day on a sandy beach by means of two radiometers; the UV protection offered by some T-shirts used by lifeguards was also tested in the laboratory with a spectrophotometer. Results The analysed shading structures strongly reduced the ultraviolet radiation by up to 90%, however a not always negligible diffuse radiation is also present in the shade, requiring further protective measures (T-shirt, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.); the tested T-shirts showed a very good-excellent protection according to the Australian/New Zealand standard. Conclusion Results obtained in this study suggest how the adoption and dissemination of good practices, including those tested, could be particularly effective as a primary prevention for lifeguards who are subjected to very high levels of radiation for long periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Grifoni
- CNR-IBE - Institute of Bioeconomy - National Research Council, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy,LaMMA Consortium, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy,Corresponding author. Institute of Bioeconomy - National Research Council, Via Madonna del Piano, 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy.
| | - Giulio Betti
- CNR-IBE - Institute of Bioeconomy - National Research Council, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy,LaMMA Consortium, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Andrea Bogi
- Physical Agents Sector, Regional Public Health Laboratory, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Bramanti
- AUSL North West Tuscany, Hygiene and Health at Work Unit, Prevention Department, Versilia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Chiarugi
- Screening and Secondary Prevention Unit, Institut for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| | - Bernardo Gozzini
- CNR-IBE - Institute of Bioeconomy - National Research Council, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy,LaMMA Consortium, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Marco Morabito
- CNR-IBE - Institute of Bioeconomy - National Research Council, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Sabatini
- CNR-IBE - Institute of Bioeconomy - National Research Council, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Lucia Miligi
- Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology Branch - Cancer Risk Factors and Lifestyle Epidemiology Unit, Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (ISPRO), Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Calvache Ruales MF, Westerhausen S, Zapata Gallo HA, Strehl B, Naza Guzman SD, Versteeg H, Stöppelmann W, Wittlich M. UVR Exposure and Prevention of Street Construction Workers in Colombia and Germany. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127259. [PMID: 35742508 PMCID: PMC9223545 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
(1) Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) poses a major risk factor for developing skin cancer after years of chronic exposure. The irradiation is strongly dependent upon the activity or occupation carried out, but also on the climate conditions at the workplace. Knowledge of both has been tested within the occupational group of road construction workers in Colombia and Germany. (2) The GENESIS-UV measurement system has been used at both locations for consistency. A number of workers in both countries wore an electronic data logging dosimeter for several months to deliver detailed information on UVR exposure. (3) It was found that in a tropical climate, UVR exposure remains constant throughout the year, while in a temperate climate seasonal effects are visible, superimposed by behavioural aspects e.g., in springtime. The daily distribution of the radiation shows a distinct dip, especially in the Colombian data. Derived data show the high fraction of working days exceeding a threshold set by the skin type. (4) Road construction work involves high UVR exposure. In both countries, preventive measures are required to reduce the personal exposure to a minimum. Exceedance of the minimal erythema dose (MED) suggests a possible enhancing effect, especially in fair skinned people. Intercomparison of UVR exposure at workplaces is possible between countries and climate zones, emphasizing efforts for global action against skin cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephan Westerhausen
- Department of Ergonomics: Physical Environmental Factors, Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, D-53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany;
| | | | - Benjamin Strehl
- Department Accident Prevention: Digitalisation—Technologies, Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, D-53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany;
| | - Sergio D. Naza Guzman
- Risk Management Consultancy CGR, SURA, Cali 760046, Colombia; (M.F.C.R.); (S.D.N.G.)
| | - Helmut Versteeg
- Department Exposure and Risk Assessment, Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, D-53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany; (H.V.); (W.S.)
| | - Wiho Stöppelmann
- Department Exposure and Risk Assessment, Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, D-53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany; (H.V.); (W.S.)
| | - Marc Wittlich
- Department Accident Prevention: Digitalisation—Technologies, Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, D-53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)30-13001-3500
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jakobsen MM, Mortensen OS, Grandahl K. Sun Protection Behavior in Danish Outdoor Workers Following a Multicomponent Intervention. Front Public Health 2022; 10:885950. [PMID: 35570895 PMCID: PMC9098216 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.885950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Outdoor workers can be exposed to relatively high levels of ultraviolet radiation and are at risk of developing occupational skin cancer. Implementing the use of sun protection in outdoor workers at work is therefore important. The objective of this follow-up study was to evaluate the effect of a multicomponent intervention to improve the use of sun protection in Danish outdoor workers. Method A total of 237 Danish outdoor workers were asked to complete surveys in 2016/17 and in 2020. Multicomponent interventions, between surveys, included information on skin cancer risk and use of sun protection, personal dosimetry and skin examination for signs of photodamage and skin cancer. Survey items on awareness of occupational skin cancer risk and perceived importance of sun protection as well as availability and use of sun protection at work were compared and analyzed in relation to the multicomponent intervention. Results Overall, the use of sun protection at work increased significantly (composite score [95% CI] 4.0 [3.7, 4.3] in 2016/17 and 4.6 [4.3, 4.9] in 2020, p < 0.001). Sunscreen was by far the biggest contributor, and the only type of sun protection used at work, which changed significantly (often/always use 37% in 2016/17 and 52% in 2020, p < 0.001). The biggest influence on the increased use of sun protection at work seemed to be a significant increase in the awareness of occupational skin cancer risk (moderate/high 43% in 2016/17 and 63% in 2020, p < 0.001) and perceived importance of sun protection at work (moderate/high 69% in 2016/17 and 83% in 2020, p < 0.001). Conclusion The results of this study indicate that awareness of occupational skin cancer risk as well as the perceived importance and use of sun protection at work in Danish outdoor workers may be improved by means of multicomponent intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Munk Jakobsen
- The Department of Occupational and Social Medicine, Holbæk Hospital, Copenhagen University Holbæk, Holbæk, Denmark
| | - Ole Steen Mortensen
- The Department of Occupational and Social Medicine, Holbæk Hospital, Copenhagen University Holbæk, Holbæk, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Section of Social Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kasper Grandahl
- The Department of Occupational and Social Medicine, Holbæk Hospital, Copenhagen University Holbæk, Holbæk, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Section of Social Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
O'Mahoney P. Personal ultraviolet radiation exposure can be determined through a simple modelling approach. Br J Dermatol 2021; 186:207-208. [PMID: 34817861 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.20823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P O'Mahoney
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.,Photobiology Unit, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Soueid L, Triguero-Mas M, Dalmau A, Barrera-Gómez J, Alonso L, Basagaña X, Thieden E, Wulf HC, Diffey B, Young AR, Nieuwenhuijsen M, Dadvand P. Estimating personal solar ultraviolet radiation exposure through time spent outdoors, ambient levels and modelling approaches. Br J Dermatol 2021; 186:266-273. [PMID: 34403140 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.20703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on validation of surrogates applied to evaluate the personal exposure levels of solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in epidemiological studies is scarce. OBJECTIVES To determine and compare the validity of three approaches, including (i) ambient UVR levels, (ii) time spent outdoors, and (iii) a modelling approach integrating the aforementioned parameters, to estimate personal UVR exposure over a period of six months among indoor and outdoor workers and in different seasons (summer/winter). METHODS This validation study was part of the EU ICEPURE project and was performed between July 2010 and January 2011 in a convenience sample of indoor and outdoor workers in Catalunya - Spain. We developed linear regression models to quantify the variation in the objectively measured personal UVR exposure that could be explained, separately, by the ambient UVR, time spent outdoors, and modelled UVR levels. RESULTS Our 39 participants - mostly male and with a median age of 35 years- presented a median daily objectively measured UVR of 0.37 standard erythemal doses (SEDs). The UVR dose was statistically significantly higher in summer and for outdoor workers. The modelled personal UVR exposure and self-reported time spent outdoors could reasonably predict the variation in the objectively measured personal UVR levels (R2 = (0.75, 0.79)), whereas ambient UVR was a poor predictor (R2 =0.21). No notable differences were found between seasons or occupation. CONCLUSIONS Time outdoors and our modelling approach were reliable predictors and of value to be applied in epidemiological studies of the health effects of current exposure to UVR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Soueid
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Triguero-Mas
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Lab for Urban Environmental Justice and Sustainability, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Environmental Science and Technology, ICTA-UAB), Barcelona, Spain.,Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Dalmau
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain.,Agència de Qualitat i Avaluació Sanitàries de Catalunya (AQuAS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Barrera-Gómez
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Alonso
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - X Basagaña
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Thieden
- Department of Dermatology, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - H C Wulf
- Department of Dermatology, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - B Diffey
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, England, UK
| | - A R Young
- King's College London, St John´s Institute of Dermatology, London, United Kingdom
| | - M Nieuwenhuijsen
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - P Dadvand
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
During leisure time, people can decide if they want to expose themselves to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation and to what extent. While working, people do not have this choice. Outdoor workers are exposed to solar UV radiation (UVR) on a daily basis. This may pose a certain health risk, which can be estimated when the personal solar UVR exposure (PE) is known. During past decades, a variety of studies were conducted to measure PE of outdoor workers and our knowledge of the PE of outdoor workers has increased remarkably. As shown by this review, studies clearly indicate that PE of most outdoor workers exceeds the internationally proposed threshold limit value, which is comparable to 1.0 to 1.3 standard erythema dose (SED), respectively, to 1.1 to 1.5 UV Index received over one hour. Besides working in a high UVR environ, monotonic workflow (limited movement, nearly static posture) is a risk factor. In such cases, PE can be higher than ambient UVR. In this review, we provide also a list of milestones, depicting the progress and the most important findings in this field during the past 45 years. However, in many respects our knowledge is still rudimentary, for several reasons. Different measuring positions have been used so that measured PE is not comparable. Few studies were designed to enable the extension of measured PE to other locations or dates. Although the importance of a proper calibration of the measuring devices in respect to the changing solar spectrum was pointed out from the beginning, this is often not performed, which leads to high uncertainties in the presented PE levels. At the end of our review, we provide some key points, which can be used to evaluate the quality of a study respectively to support the design of future studies.
Collapse
|
13
|
John SM, Garbe C, French LE, Takala J, Yared W, Cardone A, Gehring R, Spahn A, Stratigos A. Improved protection of outdoor workers from solar ultraviolet radiation: position statement. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 35:1278-1284. [PMID: 33222341 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.17011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The vast majority of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is attributable to excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Outdoor workers are exposed to an UVR dose at least 2 to 3 times higher than indoor workers and often to daily UVR doses 5 times above internationally recommended limits. The risk of UVR workplace exposure is vastly neglected, and the evident future challenges presented in this statement are contrasted with the current situation regarding legal recognition, patient care and compensation. While prevention is crucial to reduce cancer risks for outdoor workers, it is as much of relevance to better protect them through legally binding rules and regulations. Specific actions are outlined in five recommendations based on a Call to Action (table 1). The role of health professionals, including dermatologists, in this context is crucial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S M John
- EADV Task Force Occupational Skin Diseases and Dept. Dermatology, Environmental Medicine, University of Osnabrueck, Osnabrueck, Germany
| | - C Garbe
- European Association of Dermato Oncology (EADO) and Department of Dermatology, Eber, hard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - L E French
- International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) and Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - J Takala
- International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH), University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - W Yared
- European Cancer Leagues (ECL), Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Cardone
- European Cancer Patient Coalition (ECPC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - R Gehring
- Safety and Health, European Federation Building and Woodworkers (EFBWW), Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Spahn
- Agriculture Section, European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions (EFFAT), Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Stratigos
- European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) and Dept. Dermatology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|