Series temporales de medida de radiación solar ultravioleta y fotosintética en Málaga

Positive impact of Distintivo Soludable on implementation of sun protection policies and practices in schools of Andalusia, Spain

The incidence of skin cancer is increasing worldwide even though its main risk factor is preventable. This study evaluated the impact of the Distintivo Soludable pilot intervention on implementation of photoprotection policies and practices in preschool and primary schools in Andalusia, Spain. We completed two rounds of a Sun Protection Policies and Practices Survey (SPPPS) nine months apart. At baseline, 67 Andalusian schools earned a median score of 3/12 points (range 0-8; IQR: 2). Ten schools involved in Distintivo Soludable intervention group significantly increased their scores from 4 to 7.5/12 points (p = 0.014). We also detected a modest positive effect in 57 control group schools, an increase from 2 to 3 points (p = 0.002). This pilot study demonstrated that the main achievement of the Distintivo Soludable intervention was implementation of organizational policies regarding sun protection, an essential starting point for establishing positive attitudes toward sun protection in school communities.

Discussion Abounds on the Potential Carcinogenic Risks Associated With the Use of UV Curing Lamps for Permanent Nail Polish

BACKGROUND

Controversy has recently broken out over the potential carcinogenic risk associated with exposure to UV lamps for permanent nail polish. The new LED-based polymerization devices, and their potential biological effect has not been analyzed to this date.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the emission power and its potential biological effects on the skin of 2 types of UV LED and fluorescent curing lamps under normal use conditions compared to doses of sunlight exposure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The emission spectrum (290nm to 450nm) of curing lamps and the Sun at noon on an average summer day in mid-latitude Spain was analyzed. The effective biological irradiance potential for erythema, non-melanoma skin cancer, DNA damage, photoimmunosuppression and permanent pigmentation was also characterized.

RESULTS

The high-energy UVA-visible irradiance emitted by these devices was similar to the one coming from the Sun in that spectral range while the effective biological doses were lower or similar to those also coming from the Sun. The total UV and high-energy visible dose per manicure session corresponded to that obtained from 3.5min to 6min exposures to the Sun at noon in the summer days at our latitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

The exposure times and doses received with the common use of artificial lamp nail drying correspond to sunlight exposures of 3min to 5min in the central hours of the day. This represents a very low carcinogenic potential compared to sunlight exposure, although similar regarding immunosuppressive potential. Photoprotective measures would further minimize the risks.

Discussion Abounds on the Potential Carcinogenic Risks Associated With the Use of UV Curing Lamps for Permanent Nail Polish

BACKGROUND

Controversy has recently broken out over the potential carcinogenic risk associated with exposure to UV lamps for permanent nail polish. The new LED-based polymerization devices, and their potential biological effect has not been analyzed to this date.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the emission power and its potential biological effects on the skin of 2 types of UV LED and fluorescent curing lamps under normal use conditions compared to doses of sunlight exposure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The emission spectrum (290nm to 450nm) of curing lamps and the Sun at noon on an average summer day in mid-latitude Spain was analyzed. The effective biological irradiance potential for erythema, non-melanoma skin cancer, DNA damage, photoimmunosuppression and permanent pigmentation was also characterized.

RESULTS

The high-energy UVA-visible irradiance emitted by these devices was similar to the one coming from the Sun in that spectral range while the effective biological doses were lower or similar to those also coming from the Sun. The total UV and high-energy visible dose per manicure session corresponded to that obtained from 3.5min to 6min exposures to the Sun at noon in the summer days at our latitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

The exposure times and doses received with the common use of artificial lamp nail drying correspond to sunlight exposures of 3min to 5min in the central hours of the day. This represents a very low carcinogenic potential compared to sunlight exposure, although similar regarding immunosuppressive potential. Photoprotective measures would further minimize the risks.

Occupational Sun Exposure Among Physical Education Teachers in Primary and Secondary Schools in Andalusia, Spain

Chronic sun exposure and sunburns are the main preventable causes of skin cancer. Due to the nature of their work, physical education teachers are at high risk for occupational skin cancer. This descriptive, cross-sectional study analyzes primary and secondary physical education teachers in Andalusia, Spain. All participants were invited to monitor their ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure using individual biologic dosimeters and record their photoprotection practices over 3 workdays. The teachers spent an average of 2.7 h outdoors and the mean personal UV radiation exposure was 309.9 J/m2 per day, a value three times higher than international recommendations. Based on the photoprotection diary, it was determined that classes held outdoors were not scheduled outside the hours with the highest UV index and that the percentage of participants who followed the photoprotective practices of remaining in the shade or wearing a hat during outdoor lessons were less than 20% and 60%, respectively. The results on sun exposure and photoprotection practices show a need for organizational and educational intervention strategies to mitigate sun exposure and increase compliance with photoprotection measures to reduce skin cancer risk among these workers and promote early diagnosis of the disease.

Sun-protective Properties of Technical Sportswear Fabrics 100% Polyester: The Influence of Moisture and Sweat on Protection against Different Biological Effects of Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

The use of technical sportswear is now widespread, but the degree of protection these fabrics offer against UV radiation is not known. We have analyzed the capacity of different types of technical sportswear fabrics to protect against different UV biological effects. A sample of 34 100% polyester t-shirts from different manufactures was classified by color, fabric structure, cover factor, and due to different tonalities, dark, and clear color. Ultraviolet protection factor was calculated according to UNE-EN13758. The protection factor for other biological effects as pre-vitamin D₃ production, non-melanoma skin cancer, photoimmunosuppression, and photoaging was analyzed. The effects of moisture and sweat in protection were also evaluated. From the analyzed sample garments, more than 75% achieved an excellent protection value (protection factor 40-50+). Higher values were found in double-layer type (P < 0.05). Cover factor was the main determinant of biological protection factors with correlation coefficients of 0.81 for UPF (erythema), 0.77 for NMSC, and 0.63 for photoimmunosuppression. Water or sweat humidity saturation increased biological protection factors over a 20% (P < 0.05). The 83% of the fabrics analyzed showed less than 5% of transmittance with labeling as UVA protective elements. No effect of fabric color was found related to biological protection factors. The 100% polyester sports T-shirts of the analyzed sample offer general protection against UV for different biological effects that can be increased by humidity but no affected by fabric color.

Sun Protection Policies and Practices in Preschool and Elementary Schools in Andalusia (Spain)

Sun exposure in childhood is a major risk factor for the development of skin cancer as an adult. School children spend much of their time outdoors exposed to ultraviolet radiation during recreational and sports activities. Skin cancer incidence tripled from 1978 to 2002 in Spain. Andalusia, the largest and sunniest region of Spain, lacks data on the sun protection measures taken in schools. To address this deficit, the aim of this study was to determine photoprotection practices and policies in preschools and primary schools in Andalusia. This descriptive study involved the administration of an online questionnaire completed by principals regarding school sun protection policies and practices. Preschool and primary schools were selected from the database of the Ministry of Education of the Andalusian Regional Government. Information of interest included photoprotection policies, students' sun protection knowledge, sun protection measures, relevant curricular content, and availability of shade at the school. A total of 2425 schools were contacted. Of them, 420 schools responded (17.31%), with the highest number of responses received from Malaga (23.8%) and Seville (19.5%) provinces. Of those responding, 67.1% of the schools did not have written sun protection policies. The photoprotection measures reported included mandatory use of a cap or hat (3.3%), use of sunglasses in outdoor areas (30%), and active encouragement of students to use sunscreen (50.7%). Roughly 24% of schools evaluated their shaded areas, with 52.9% reporting insufficient protection for most activities. The study results showed that photoprotection policies and practices in Andalusian schools were mostly insufficient. Given that skin cancer incidence has increased considerably over the last decade, it is important to concentrate on improving primary prevention practices. Additionally, photoprotection programs in schools have been shown to improve children's knowledge, attitudes, and habits regarding photoprotection. Thus, it is essential for Andalusian preschools and primary schools to develop policies and strategies to help reduce children's sun exposure while at school.

Sunscreens effectiveness are not altered by concomitant use of moisturizing creams: An ultraviolet reflectance photography study

BACKGROUND

Sunscreens are widely used to protect the skin against the harmful effects of solar radiation. It is not known whether solar protection factor of a sunscreen is altered by the concomitant use of other cosmetic products.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze changes in the protective effect of different commercial and ISO standards sunscreens with high SPF applied shortly before and after application of non-sunscreens galenic formulas type moisturizing creams.

METHODS

ISO 24444:2019 standard sunscreens, which claimed SPF 16 and 63, as well as 4 different claimed SPF 50 and 50+ commercial sunscreens were prepared and applied in different sequential order to the back of 25 volunteers and compared with different commercial moisturizing formulas. Ultraviolet (UV) reflectance photography followed by image analysis was used to compare untreated skin and skin treated with moisturizing creams alone and combined with sunscreens.

RESULTS

The UV reflectance analysis showed no significant changes of the skin color reflectance treated with moisturizing cream compared with untreated skin. Application of the sunscreen formulations were associated with a 35% - 70% decrease in color related to the in vivo expected SPF, indicating significant UV absorption for all sunscreen formulas. All standard and commercial sunscreens showed no significant differences in UV reflection color level when combined with the different moisturizing creams applied before or after the sunscreen.

CONCLUSIONS

Effectiveness of low- and high-protection sunscreens were not altered by the concomitant use of a moisturizing creams applied shortly before and after the sunscreens.

Photoprotection habits, attitudes and knowledge among school communities in the Costa del sol (Spain)

BACKGROUND

Scholar photoprotection campaigns are among the most effective strategies for preventing skin cancer. Analysis of the target population constitutes a valuable starting point for the implementation of primary prevention strategies. Our aim is to study photoprotection habits, attitudes and knowledge among a Spanish school community.

METHODS

Descriptive cross-sectional study targeting schoolchildren, parents and teachers at 20 schools in the area of the Costa del Sol Health Agency in southern Spain. Two population-specific, validated questionnaires were used: the CHRESI (for children aged 0-10 years) and CHACES Questionnaire(for adults and adolescents aged > 11 years). We collected demographic data, skin colour, skin phototype, sunburn episodes, sun exposure and photoprotection practices, attitudes and knowledge.

RESULTS

1728 questionnaires were analyzed (22% parents, 14.5% teachers, 44.8% adolescents and 18.6% children). The average ages were 8 years (children), 16 years (adolescents), 39 years (teachers) and 42 years (parents). Globally, the predominant features were: male sex (52%), Spanish nationality (92%) and phototypes II-III (61%). Children, followed by adolescents, reported the highest exposure to the sun, both in frequency and in duration. Adolescents had the higher rate of sunburn (75%), followed by parents/teachers (54.1%) and children (44.1%). Children and their parents were the most likely to adopt photoprotection measures, while adolescents presented more risky attitudes. Knowledge regarding photoprotection was acceptable (6.9/10).

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the need to improve photoprotection knowledge, habits and attitudes among our target population. Scholars, parents and teachers in our area should be addressed in campaigns to promote healthy sun exposure habits, thus reducing skin cancer-related morbidity and mortality in this region.

"Beach Lifeguards' Sun Exposure and Sun Protection in Spain"

BACKGROUND

Sunburn is the main avoidable cause of skin cancer. Beach lifeguards spend many hours exposed to the effects of solar radiation during their work day, precisely at times of the year when levels of solar irradiation are highest. The aim of this study is to quantify the risk to beach lifeguards of sun exposure.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the Western Costa del Sol, southern Spain, during the summer of 2018. The research subjects were recruited during a skin cancer prevention course for beach lifeguards. All participants were invited to complete a questionnaire on their habits, attitudes, and knowledge related to sun exposure. In addition, ten were specially monitored using personal dosimeters for three consecutive days, and the results were recorded in a photoprotection diary. A descriptive analysis (mean and standard deviation for the quantitative variables) was performed, and inter-group differences were evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifteen lifeguards completed the questionnaire, and 109 met the criteria for inclusion in this analysis. The mean age was 23.8 years (SD: 5.1), 78.0% were male, 71.5% were phototype III or IV (Fitzpatrick's phototype), and 77.1% had experienced at least one painful sunburn during the previous summer. The mean daily personal ultraviolet exposure per day, the minimal erythema dose, and the standard erythema dose, in J/m2, were 634.7 [standard deviation (SD): 356.2], 2.5 (SD: 1.4) and 6.35 (SD: 3.6), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Beach lifeguards receive very high doses of solar radiation during the work day and experience correspondingly high rates of sunburn. Intervention strategies to modify their sun exposure behavior and working environment are necessary to reduce the risk of skin cancer for these workers and to promote early diagnosis of the disease.

Sun Protection Behaviors and Knowledge in Mountain Marathon Runners and Risk Factors for Sunburn

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The incidence of skin cancer in our society is growing at an alarming rate due to overexposure to solar UV radiation in recreational and occupational settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate sun exposure and protection attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge among mountain ultramarathon runners and to assess risk factors for sunburn in this population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cross-sectional survey of runners who participated in the «Gran Trail Aneto-Posets» race in Aragon, Spain. Using a validated questionnaire, we collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, running experience, sunburn in the previous summer, and sun exposure and protection behaviors. We calculated descriptive statistics and performed bivariate and multivariate analyses of associations using history of sunburn as the primary outcome. Statistical significance was set at a p level of less than 0.05.

RESULTS

We surveyed 657 runners (72.1% men) with a mean age of 39.71 years; 45.1% reported sunburn in the past year. The most common protective measures used were sunglasses (74.7%), sunscreen (sun protection factor ≥ 15) (61.9%), a hat (52.2%), and other protective clothing (7.4%). Risk factors for sunburn were younger age, low Fitzpatrick skin type (I and II), running for three or more hours a day, and staying in the shade as a protective measure. By contrast, protective factors were use of sunscreen and seeking shade rather than sun at midday (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sunburn is common among long-distance mountain runners, despite what appears to be adequate sun protection knowledge and behaviors. Targeted strategies are needed to improve sun protection behaviors among mountain runners.

Preventing Skin Cancer Among Staff and Guests at Seaside Hotels

Beach users and outdoor workers in resort areas are major risk groups for skin cancer, and therefore seaside hotels constitute a strategic area in which to conduct awareness-raising campaigns and interventions. The main aim of the present study is to describe habits, attitudes and knowledge related to sun exposure, the sunburn events experienced and potentially malignant skin lesions observed among hotel staff and guests recruited during a skin cancer prevention campaign at seaside hotels in the western Costa del Sol (southern Spain). This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at four seaside hotels in the western Costa del Sol. An 8-day awareness-raising campaign on skin cancer was conducted for hotel guests and staff, who were invited to complete a questionnaire about their habits, attitudes and knowledge regarding photoprotection, and to receive a comprehensive skin examination. The questionnaire on habits, attitudes and knowledge related to sun exposure was completed by 542 participants. The most common photoprotection practice was the use of sunglasses (79.3%). Potentially dangerous lesions were identified in 39 persons (14%). In addition, 94.0% reported having gained new knowledge, 89.6% had changed their attitudes towards sun tanning and 94.7% intended to improve their photoprotection practices in the future. Seaside hotels are an optimal scenario for conducting studies aimed at skin cancer prevention and reduction. Further studies should be carried out in other geographical areas to confirm our results, to evaluate the costs and benefits of such interventions and determine their long-term impact on health.

Sunscreens as a New Source of Metals and Nutrients to Coastal Waters

Studies detailing the environmental impact of sunscreen products on coastal ecosystems are considered a high priority. In the present study, we have determined the release rate of dissolved trace metals (Al, Cd, Cu, Co, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, and Ti) and inorganic nutrients (SiO₂, P-PO₄^3-, and N-NO₃^-) from a commercial sunscreen in seawater, and the role of UV radiation in the mobilization of these compounds. Our results indicate that release rates are higher under UV light conditions for all compounds and trace metals except Pb. We have developed a kinetic model to establish the release pattern and the contribution to marine coastal waters of dissolved trace metals and inorganic nutrients from sunscreen products. We conservatively estimate that sunscreen from bathers is responsible for an increase of dissolved metals and nutrients ranging from 7.54 × 10^-4 % for Ni up to 19.8% for Ti. Our results demonstrate that sunscreen products are a significant source of metals and inorganic nutrients to coastal waters. The normally low environmental concentrations of some elements (e.g., P) and the toxicity of others (e.g., Pb) could be having a serious adverse effect on marine ecology in the Mediterranean Sea. This risk must not be ignored.

New advances in protection against solar ultraviolet radiation in textiles for summer clothing

Clothing is considered one of the most important tools for photoprotection against harmful solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR). The standard for sun-protective clothing is based on erythema despite other biological effects of UVR on the skin. We analyzed the potential protection against UVR in fabrics destined for summer clothing based on several action spectra. We examined 50 garments classified by type of fabric composition, structure of the fiber yarn and color. The ultraviolet protection factor was calculated based on fabric ultraviolet transmittance corrected for erythema according to the EU standard E-13758 as well as the UVA transmittance of fabrics. UVR protection was also analyzed in base of different action spectra as for previtamin D3, nonmelanoma skin cancer, photoimmunosuppression and photoaging. Most knitted fabrics used for sports T-shirts offered excellent ratings for ultraviolet protection while normal shirts showed very low ratings, particularly against photoaging. The cover is the most influential variable in fabric photoprotection, having an exponential relationship with the UPF. The relation between cover and UVA protection was linearly negative. Information about ultraviolet protection in textiles used for summer clothing should be included in labeling as some types of fabrics, especially those used for shirts, offer very low UVR protection.