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

Sun Exposure Awareness and Sunscreen Use Among College Students in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

BACKGROUND

Excessive sun exposure is a significant risk factor for various skin conditions, including sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. This study aimed to assess the awareness, attitudes, and practices regarding sun exposure and sunscreen use among college students in Saudi Arabia.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 388 college students from various disciplines. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic information, awareness, and practices related to sun exposure and sunscreen use. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed to analyze the data.

RESULTS

This study comprised 209 (53.9%) females and 179 (46.1%) males, with the majority aged between 18 and 23 years. Formal education on sun exposure dangers was lacking in 43.0% (167) of participants. The most recognized consequences of excessive sun exposure were sunburn (313, 80.6%) and skin cancer (289, 74.4%). Factors influencing sunscreen use included weather conditions and healthcare provider recommendations. Males were significantly less likely to use sunscreen compared to females. First-year students and participants without formal education on sun exposure were less likely to use sunscreen regularly.

CONCLUSION

Despite awareness of the risks associated with excessive sun exposure, sunscreen use among college students in Saudi Arabia is inconsistent and influenced by various factors, including gender and education level.

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.