Awareness about proper use of sunscreen in people of color: A Jordanian-based survey

Assessment of prevalence of sunscreen use and related practices among people living in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional survey-based study

BACKGROUND

The use of sunscreen significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer and helps maintain skin health; however, improper use can decrease its effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with sunscreen use in Saudi Arabia as well as identifying areas of weakness in sunscreen practices.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted with a diverse population sample in Saudi Arabia. Participants were asked about their sunscreen usage habits, motivations, and knowledge of proper application techniques. Demographic information, including age, gender, and skin type, were also collected.

RESULTS

A total of 2321 individuals participated in the study. More than two-thirds of the participants reported using sunscreen either always, regularly, or often, primarily to maintain a light skin color and prevent skin cancer. Factors associated with sunscreen use included younger age (18-40 years old), female gender, history of sunburn, and fair skin. Despite the majority reporting healthy sun exposure habits, several shortcomings were identified in sunscreen practices, including incorrect application and suboptimal reapplication frequency.

CONCLUSION

While sunscreen use is common among the study population, there is a need for improved education on proper application techniques. National awareness campaigns, especially those utilizing popular social media and digital platforms in Saudi Arabia, should focus on disseminating accurate sunscreen use guidelines to maximize sun protection and skin health.

Evaluation of social knowledge on photoprotection and its relationship with education and age in a Polish seaside town during summer holidays

OBJECTIVE

This survey aimed to evaluate knowledge of photoprotection among individuals from a random group in a resort town in Poland, Kołobrzeg, and explore the correlation between their knowledge and demographics like age, gender, education, and residence.

METHODS

An anonymous survey was conducted among a diverse group. This population comprised individuals from various backgrounds: health spa patients undergoing treatments, therapies and medical appointments, guests visiting the resort for leisure, passersby, and staff working at the spa and recreational facilities. The survey was designed by authors, encompassed 16 questions about knowledge on photoprotection, sunscreen use and related topics, and gathered demographic data. Responses from 142 individuals were statistically analyzed using PQStat Software.

RESULTS

Only 7.7% use sunscreen all year-round. The majority apply sun protection factor (SPF) creams on sunny days or with prolonged sun exposure. Over half of the respondents (53.5%) are aware when to apply sunscreen but 43% reapply it less than every 4 h. 25.4% do not reapply at all. 38.7% think protection provided by higher SPF means longer sun exposure time. Over 50% believe SPF 30 offers double the protection of SPF 15. Almost half (46.8%) use extra sun protection, like sunglasses or hats. Significant correlations exist between education/age and certain survey responses.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings emphasize the urgency to improve photoprotection knowledge in the Polish population, particularly regarding the year-round harmful solar effects and the correct use of sun protection products.

Dermatology Patients' Knowledge of Sunscreen Guidelines at a University Hospital in Saudi Arabia

Objective

The goal of this study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of dermatology patients regarding sunscreen use as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Methods

This was an observational cross-sectional study at a university hospital in Riyadh. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire to measure their knowledge and attitude regarding sunscreen use. Results were analyzed using a chi-square test.

Results

Most participants heard about sunscreen (93.4%) and had indicated previous sunscreen use (72%). Sunscreen use was higher among women and participants with a postgraduate education. Sunscreen knowledge was higher among women, participants with non-photosensitive disorders, and participants with Fitzpatrick I, II, and III skin types. A total of 80% knew the worst time for sun exposure, but only 20.5% of the participants knew that sunscreen should be applied daily throughout the year, and 13.5% knew the correct minimum recommended SPF. A total of 34% were aware of the minimum time allowed for sunscreen application before sun exposure, and 20% were aware of the longest period allowed between reapplications. Only 4.5% knew the proper amount of sunscreen to cover the entire body.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that most participants had heard of sunscreen, however their knowledge of the guidelines for sunscreen use was poor. Only 33% of the participants had received a recommendation for using sunscreen from their general practitioner or dermatologist. More comprehensive and directed efforts need to be made in counselling and educating these patients on proper sunscreen practice.