Knowledge and habits of sun exposure in university students: a cross-sectional study in Southern Brazil

Abstract BACKGROUND: Excessive sun exposure is the major risk factor for skin cancer. Thus, sun exposure behavior is the major focus for prevention of this disease, since it is potentially modifiable. Increasing the knowledge on sun related habits and other skin cancer risk factors is fundamental in the development of preventive programs, especially when directed to young people. OBJECTIVES: To assess the photoprotection habits and the knowledge about skin cancer in college students. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study from Oct. 16 to Feb. 17, including 371 students from the Federal University of Santa Maria, RS, Brazil, through a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: The level of knowledge about skin cancer and photoprotection was unsatisfactory in more than 10% of the students. The occurrence of sunburn was extremely high among students, and 25% reported at least one episode of second degree sunburn. Proper use of sunscreen was referred by only 34% of individuals. Students who reported having received photo education in college were associated with a more consistent use of sunscreen. STUDY LIMITATIONS: health area represented a large part of the sample; instrument validated outside Brazil. CONCLUSIONS: Young people are unaware of basic information about sun protection and exposure. Even among those with proper knowledge, the use of photoprotective measures is very low. The sun exposure has shown to be excessive in most of the students, which makes this population an important target for photo-educational measures.

Recent advances in layered double hydroxides applied to photoprotection / Recentes avanços dos hidróxidos duplos lamelares aplicados à fotoproteção

ABSTRACT Layered double hydroxides have received more attention from researchers due to their range of applications, ease of synthesis and low cost of production. With broader knowledge about solar radiation effects on the body, the use of sunscreens has become even more important. The ability of some nanostructures, such as layered double hydroxides, to act as matrices has made it possible to obtain improvements in photoprotective formulations, with solutions to problems caused by radiation and sunscreens. This review article brings together the most recent advances of these clays, the layered double hydroxides, applied to photoprotection.

RESUMO Os hidróxidos duplos lamelares vêm ganhando maior atenção de pesquisadores, em decorrência da gama de aplicações, da facilidade de síntese e do baixo custo de produção. Com o crescente conhecimento sobre diversos efeitos da radiação solar sobre o organismo, a utilização de fotoprotetores tem se tornado indispensável. A capacidade de nanoestruturas, como os hidróxidos duplos lamelares, atuarem como matrizes possibilitou melhorias nas formulações fotoprotetoras, tendo em vista os problemas provocados pela radiação, bem como por alguns filtros solares. Este artigo de revisão reúne os avanços mais recentes destas argilas, os hidróxidos duplos lamelares, aplicados à fotoproteção.

Conocimientos, hábitos y actitudes de fotoprotección en adolescentes / Knowledge, habits, and attitudes of photoprotection in teenagers

Introducción: el cáncer de piel es una neoplasia frecuente en el ser humano a nivel mundial, su incidencia se ha incrementado durante las últimas décadas, considerado como una expresión de hábitos de mayor exposición a radiaciones ultravioletas. Entre el 60% y 80 % de la exposición solar a lo largo de la vida tiene lugar antes de la edad de 18 años. Los niños y adolescentes son los más vulnerables a la radiación, debido a que el daño solar es máximo y acumulativo. Objetivo: describir los conocimientos, hábitos y actitudes de fotoprotección en escolares del nivel secundario. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal en adolescentes de la Escuela Secundaria Básica Cándido González, ubicada en la localidad ¨La Playa¨, municipio Matanzas, en el periodo de febrero a marzo del 2017. El universo quedó constituido por la totalidad de los estudiantes que cursan el séptimo y octavo grado (259). Resultados: se encontró un predominio del fototipo cutáneo III en la población de estudio. En cuanto a los conocimientos sobre fotoprotección y fotodaño, 195 estudiantes (75,3%) fueron evaluados de mal. El 65,6% de los adolescentes refirieron usar cremas de protección solar. En relación con la actitud ante el bronceado, se observó que fue adecuada en 240 alumnos (92,7%). Conclusiones: los malos conocimientos sobre fotoprotección y fotodaño de los alumnos encuestados pueden estar relacionados a hábitos inadecuados e historias de quemadura solar encontrados (AU).

Introduction: skin cancer is a frequent neoplasia in the human being all around the world; its incidence has increased during the last decades, fact that is considered as an expression of habits of more exposition to ultraviolet radiations. Between 60 % and 80 % of the exposition to sunlight throughout the live occurs before the age of 18 years. Children and teenagers are the most vulnerable to radiation due to the fact that sun damage is maximal and accumulative. Objective: to describe knowledge, habits and attitudes of photoprotection in students of the secondary level. Materials and methods: a descriptive, cro0ss-sectional study was carried out in teenagers of the Secondary School ¨Candido González¨, located in La Playa, municipality of Matanzas, in the period from January to March 2017. The universe was formed by all the students attending the 7th and 8th grade (259). Results: the skin phototype III predominated in the studied population. According to knowledge on photoprotection and photodamage, 195 students (75.3 %) were evaluated as bad. 65.6 % of teenagers referred the usage of sun protective creams. In relation with the attitude toward sun tanning, it was adequate in 240 students (92.7 %). Conclusions: the erroneous knowledge on photoprotection and photodamage of the questioned students could be related to inadequate habits and histories of sunburn they listened (AU).

Hábitos de fotoprotección en los niños que concurren a Dermatología Pediátrica del Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rosell: Photoprotective habits in children seen at the Pediatric Dermatology Unit of CHPR / Photoprotective habits in children seen at the Pediatric Dermatology Unit of CHPR

Introducción: la exposición a la radiación ultravioleta durante la infancia y la adolescencia juega un papel trascendente en el desarrollo futuro del cáncer de piel. Los niños se exponen al sol tres veces más que los adultos y antes de los 21 años se ha recibido entre el 50 y el 80 % de la radiación solar total. Objetivo: conocer qué saben los padres de la población objetivo sobre los efectos del sol en la piel y los ojos, y cuáles son sus hábitos de fotoprotección, los de sus hijos y los factores relacionados con ello. Métodos: estudio transversal a padres de niños que concurrieron a la policlínica de Dermatología Pediátrica del Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell durante los meses de octubre 2013 a enero 2014. Resultados: se entrevistó a un total de 100 padres, la media de edad de los hijos fue de 7,85 años, el 62% de los niños eran provenientes de familias de bajo nivel socioeconómico y educacional. El 43% de los encuestados respondió que le gusta estar bronceados, en comparación con un 28% que no le gusta. La medida de fotoprotección más utilizada tanto por padres (73%) como por hijos (86%) fue el protector solar, seguida de los lentes de sol en los adultos y del uso rutinario de sombrero en los niños. Conclusiones: los métodos utilizados se basan en gran medida en el uso de protectores solares con un uso inadecuado de los mismos en gran parte de los encuestados.

Introduction: exposure to ultraviolet radiation during childhood and adolescence plays an important role in the future development of skin cancer. Children are three times more sun exposed than adults. Before age 21, people receive between 50 and 80% of the total solar radiation throughout their lives. Objective: to determine what parents know about the impact of the sun on the skin and eyes, and to learn about their photoprotective habits for them and their children and some associated factors. Methods: a cross-sectional study to parents of children who were seen at the Pediatric Dermatology Unit of CHPR during the months of October 2013 to January 2014. Results: a total of 100 surveys were conducted, the average age of the children was 7.85 years old, 62% of the children came from families of low socioeconomic status. 43% of respondents declared who like to be tan, compared to 28% who did not like it. The most widely used photoprotective measure by both parents (73%) and children (86%) was sunscreen, followed by sunglasses in adults and the routine use of a cap by children. Conclusions: the photoprotection method used is based largely, on sunscreen but with an improper use in most of the respondents.

Photoprotective effect of verbascoside from Buddleja cordata in SKH-1 mice exposed to acute and chronic UV-B radiation / Efecto fotoprotector del verbascósido de Buddleja cordata en ratones SKH-1 expuestos de forma aguda y crónica a laradiación UV-B

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is involved in both sunburn and the development of skin cancer, which has a high incidence worldwide. Strategies to reduce these effects include the use of photoprotective substances. The aim of this work was to investigate the photoprotective effect of verbascoside isolated from the methanolic extract of Buddleja cordata (BCME) in SKH-1 mice exposed to acute and chronic UV-B radiation. The mouse dorsal area was evaluated macroscopically and microscopically for diagnosis; verbascoside penetration into mouse skin was investigated in vivo by the tape stripping method. After acute UV-B exposure, 100 percent of irradiated mice that had been protected with verbascoside showed no signs of sunburn or of inflammatory processes. After chronic exposure, 100 percent of unprotected mice showed skin carcinomas; in contrast, in mice topically treated with either BCME or verbascoside, the presence of lesions was decreased by 90 percent. These results prove that verbascoside penetrates through the skin of mice and suggest that verbascoside and BCME may potentially prevent photodamage on mice’s skin after acute and chronic UVR exposure.

La radiación ultravioleta (RUV) provoca quemaduras solares y el desarrollo de cáncer de piel. El objetivo de este trabajo fue investigar el efecto fotoprotector del verbascósido obtenido del extracto metanólico de Buddleja cordata (EMBC) en ratones SKH-1 expuestos a RUV-B de manera aguda y crónica. El diagnóstico histológico se llevó a cabo en la piel de la zona dorsal de los ratones. La penetración del verbascósido fue cuantificada mediante la técnica de la cinta adhesiva. En el experimento agudo, el 100 por ciento de los ratones protegidos con verbascósido no evidenciaron signos de quemadura ni procesos inflamatorios. En el experimento crónico los ratones sin protección e irradiados presentaron carcinomas cutáneos. En contraste en los ratones protegidos con EMBC o verbascósido las lesiones disminuyeron un 90 por ciento en ambos grupos. El verbascósido penetró en la piel del ratón. Los resultados sugieren que el EMBC y el verbascósido previenen el fotodaño en la piel de ratones expuestos de forma aguda o crónica a la RUV.

Práticas de exposição e proteção solar de jovens universitários / Prácticas de exposición y protección solar de jóvenes universitários / Exposure and sun protection practices of university students

RESUMO Objetivo: conhecer práticas de exposição e proteção solar de jovens universitários. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal, realizado em uma universidade de São Paulo. Resultados: a amostra foi composta por 385 jovens e a coleta de dados realizada por meio de formulário. Do total, 239 (62%) jovens classificaram-se como fototipo III e IV e 69 (17,9%) afirmaram ter histórico de câncer de pele na família. A maioria afirmou exposição ao sol entre as 10 e 16 horas e por mais de uma hora de duração; 112 (29,1%) informaram não empregar meios de proteção. Dentre os que utilizam protetor solar, a minoria o faz regularmente. Conclusão: embora a amostra tenha sido constituída por pessoas com maior acesso a informações, constatou-se exposição e proteção solar de modo impróprio. Ações educativas, individuais e coletivas devem ser fortalecidas e priorizadas tendo em vista a incidência de câncer de pele no país.

RESUMEN Objetivo: conocer las prácticas de exposición y de protección solar de jóvenes universitarios. Método: estudio descriptivo, transversal, realizado en una universidad de São Paulo. Resultados: la muestra estuvo constituida por 385 jóvenes y la colecta de datos realizada a través de formulario. Del total, 239 (62%) jóvenes fueron clasificados como tipo de piel III y IV y 69 (17,9%) afirmaron tener cáncer de piel en la historia familia. La mayoría afirma exposición al sol entre las 10 y 16 horas y durante más de una hora; 112 (29,1%) reportaron no emplear métodos de protección. Entre los que usan protector solar, la minoría lo hace regularmente. Conclusión: a pesar de que la muestra haya sido constituída por personas con mayor acceso a informaciones, se constató exposición y protección solar de manera impropia. Acciones educativas, individuales y colectivas deben fortalecerse y priorizarse teniendo en cuenta la incidencia de cáncer de piel en el país.

ABSTRACT Objective: to learn exposure and sun protection practices for university students. Method: a descriptive, cross-sectional study performed at a university in São Paulo. Results: the sample consisted of 385 young and data collection conducted through a form. Of the total, 239 (62%) young people were classified as skin type III and IV and 69 (17.9%) affirmed to have a history of skin cancer in the family. Most affirmed exposure to the sun between 10 a.m and 04 p.m and for more than one hour; 112 (29.1%) informed not employ safeguards. Among those who use sunscreen, the minority does so regularly. Conclusion: although the sample was made up of people with greater access to information, it was found exposure and sunscreen improperly. Education, individual and collective actions should be strengthened and prioritized given the incidence of skin cancer in the country.

Conocimiento y actitud frente a exposición solar del personal de salud en Atención Primaria, comuna Recoleta, Santiago, Chile / Knowledge and attitude regardings sun exposure in the workers from primary health care, district of Recoleta, Santiago, Chile

Skin cancer rates have increased worldwide despite the current prevention measures. It’s crucial to evaluate people’s knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour regarding sun exposure. Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitudes regarding sun exposure in the workers from primary health care. Method: 223 workers from three Family Care Centres(CESFAM) and from one Primary Emergency Service (SAPU) in the district of Recoleta were surveyed between the months of October and November 2015. Fisher’s exact test and Chi square test were used for statistic analysis. The survey included questions about demographic variables, knowledge of the association between sun radiation/skin cancer and attitudes towards sun protection. Results: the sample consists of 74 men and 149 women, with a mean age of 37 years ±SD 7.9. Phototype III was the most common (41.3percent). The majority of the surveyed declared to be aware of the association between sun exposure and skin cancer (93.3percent). As photoprotecting measures, sunscreens (87.4percent) and seeking shade (71.3percent) were the most frequently measures used. Regarding sunburns, 91.9percent declared to have at least one during their lifetime, 21.5percent occurring during the previous summer. As to the use of sunscreen, 42.1percent referred only using while at the pool / beach and 12.6percent declared not to use it at all. As for health promotion, 29.1percent declared they never recommend the use of sun protection measures in their working practice. Discussion: Although there is adequate knowledge regarding the effects of sun exposure, it doesn’t always reflect on favourable attitudes and photoprotecting measures. There was a significantly greater amount of females with adequate knowledge and use of sun protection measures. This study is one of the first to assess photoprotection behaviour in health care workers.

Ações extensionistas voltadas para a prevenção de queimaduras solares: relato de experiência / Acciones de extensión dirigidas a prevenir las quemaduras solares: relato de experiencia / Extension actions towards the prevention of sunburn: experience report

Objetivou-se relatar a experiência de ações educativas visando à prevenção de queimaduras, principalmente as queimaduras solares. A atividade ocorreu em uma praia no interior do Estado de Rio Grande do Sul e atingiu, aproximadamente, 550 pessoas que foram abordadas face-a-face, sendo orientadas quanto aos riscos de queimaduras solares, horários seguros de exposição ao sol e acessórios que contribuem para a proteção. Também foram mencionadas formas de agir frente aos danos causados pela intensa exposição aos raios solares, e queimaduras eventuais por meio de toxinas das lagartas e cnidários. Conclui-se que atividades como estas, além de auxiliar na assistência integral à população, contribuem com o desempenho do papel social e aprendizado dos acadêmicos de enfermagem, futuros profissionais integrantes da equipe multiprofissional de saúde.

This study was aimed to experience the educational actions focusing on the prevention of burnings, mainly sunburn. The activity was carried out in a beach at the countryside of the State of Rio Grande do Sul, and attained approximately 550 persons, which were personally approached, and oriented about the sunburn risks, safe time to sun exposure, and accessories that contribute to protection. Moreover, forms to act towards the damage caused by the intense exposure to sun, and eventual burnings throughout toxins of caterpillars and cnidarians were mentioned. It is possible to conclude that activities such as these contribute to the performance of the nursing students’ social role and learning, who are the future professionals that will compose the multidimensional health team.

El objetivo fue relatar la experiencia de acciones educativas para la prevención de quemaduras, principalmente las quemaduras solares. La actividad fue desarrollada en una playa del interior del Estado de Rio Grande del Sur y atendió, aproximadamente, 550 personas que fueron abordadas directamente, siendo orientadas en relación a los riesgos de las quemaduras solares, horarios seguros de exposición al sol y accesorios que contribuyen con la protección. También fueron mencionadas formas de actuar frente a los daños causados por la intensa exposición a los rayos solares, y quemaduras eventuales por medio de toxinas de gusanos e cnidarios. Actividades como estas, además de contribuir con la asistencia integral de la populación, contribuyen con el desempeño del papel social y aprendizaje de los estudiantes de enfermería, futuros profesionales integrantes del staff multiprofesional de salud.

Brazilian Consensus on Photoprotection

Brazil is a country of continental dimensions with a large heterogeneity of climates and massive mixing of the population. Almost the entire national territory is located between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn, and the Earth axial tilt to the south certainly makes Brazil one of the countries of the world with greater extent of land in proximity to the sun. The Brazilian coastline, where most of its population lives, is more than 8,500 km long. Due to geographic characteristics and cultural trends, Brazilians are among the peoples with the highest annual exposure to the sun. Epidemiological data show a continuing increase in the incidence of non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers. Photoprotection can be understood as a set of measures aimed at reducing sun exposure and at preventing the development of acute and chronic actinic damage. Due to the peculiarities of Brazilian territory and culture, it would not be advisable to replicate the concepts of photoprotection from other developed countries, places with completely different climates and populations. Thus the Brazilian Society of Dermatology has developed the Brazilian Consensus on Photoprotection, the first official document on photoprotection developed in Brazil for Brazilians, with recommendations on matters involving photoprotection.

Perceived Relevance of Educative Information on Public (Skin) Health: A Cross-sectional Questionnaire Survey / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES: Unprotected leisure time exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial tanning beds is the most important environmental risk factor for melanoma, a malignant skin cancer with increasing incidences over the past decades. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of skin health information provided by several sources and different publishing issues on knowledge, risk perception, and sun protective behavior of sunbathers. METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among Austrian residents (n=563) spending leisure time outdoors in August 2010. RESULTS: Print media, television, and family were perceived as the most relevant sources of information on skin health, whereas the source physician was only ranked as fourth important source. Compared to other sources, information provided by doctors positively influenced participants' knowledge on skin risk and sun protective behavior resulting in higher scores in the knowledge test (p=0.009), higher risk perception (p<0.001), and more sun protection (p<0.001). Regarding gender differences, internet was more often used by males as health information source, whereas females were more familiar with printed information material in general. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this survey put emphasis on the demand for information provided by medical professionals in order to attain effective, long-lasting promotion of photoprotective habits.

Fotoproteção tópica na infância e na adolescência / Topical photoprotection in childhood and adolescence

OBJETIVO: A exposição à luz solar na infância ocorre, frequentemente, de forma mais intensa do que em muitos adultos. Dados da literatura comprovam de maneira inequívoca a associação desse comportamento social com o risco de desenvolvimento do melanoma maligno e do câncer cutâneo não melanoma mesmo na vida adulta. Além disso, o fotoenvelhecimento cutâneo é semeado já na infância com a exposição solar inadequada. Esta revisão tem como objetivo orientar os pediatras nas medidas adequadas de fotoproteção tópica nas crianças e adolescentes, o que irá alterar de maneira positiva o futuro desses pacientes. FONTES DOS DADOS: Realizou-se uma revisão da literatura indexada na base de dados MEDLINE/PubMed entre os anos de 1999 e 2012 sobre fotoproteção na infância, selecionando-se como fonte os artigos de revisão mais relevantes, do ponto de vista de abrangência do tema fotoproteção em crianças e adolescentes, fotoproteção e vitamina D, fototerapia na neonatologia e impacto no câncer cutâneo, bronzeamento artificial e câncer cutâneo. SÍNTESE DOS DADOS: Crianças e adolescentes devem adotar medidas adequadas de fotoproteção para diminuir o risco de câncer cutâneo melanoma e não melanoma. CONCLUSÕES: Há dados na literatura que suportam a associação de hábitos de exposição solar segura e uso de fotoprotetores tópicos em crianças e adolescentes com a redução da ocorrência do câncer cutâneo.

OBJECTIVE: Exposure to sunlight in childhood is often more intense than in adults. Literature data unequivocally show the association between this social behavior and the risk for developing malignant melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, even in adulthood. Furthermore, skin photoaging begins already in childhood through inadequate sun exposure. This review aims to guide pediatricians on appropriate measures of topical photoprotection in children and adolescents, which will positively change the future of these patients. SOURCES: A review of the literature indexed in MEDLINE/PubMed between the years 1999 and 2012 on photoprotection in childhood was conducted. The most relevant review articles on photoprotection in children and adolescents, photoprotection and vitamin D in neonatal phototherapy and impact on skin cancer, artificial tanning and skin cancer were selected as sources. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Children and adolescents should adopt appropriate measures of photoprotection in order to decrease the risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. CONCLUSIONS: There are published data that support the association between sun exposure habits and safe use of topical sunscreens in children and adolescents on the one hand and a reduced occurrence of skin cancer on the other.

Câncer de pele: o papel da exposição solar como fator causal e da fotoproteção na prevenção / Skin cancer: the sun exposure as a causal factor and photoprotection prevention

O câncer de pele se tornou, nas últimas décadas, um problema de saúde pública no Brasil, corespondendo a 25% do total dos tumores malignos registrados. Constata-se a necessidade de se estabalecer estratégias que visem minimizar os problemas relacionados às dificuldades na adoção de ações preventivas, bem como motivar as pessoas para a adesão às medidas de fotoproteção. Grande parte da população mundial se expõe ao sol de forma irracional, isto aliado à mudança de hábitos de vida, à diminuição da camada de ozônio e ao descuido quanto ao uso de fotoprotetores. Todos estes fatores têm contribuído significativamente para o aumento da incidência de câncer de pele e de outras alterações cutâneas relacionadas à exposição solar inadequada. O tipo de câncer de pele mais frequentemente encontrado na população brasileira é o não melanoma, representado pelos carcinomas basocelular e espinocelular. O melanoma de pelo corresponde a apenas 4% dos tumores cutâneos; entretanto, sua letalidade é alta. Quando a exposição passa a ser prolongada e irracional, o risco de alterações cutâneas relacionadas à exposição solar passa a ser maior, principalmente em pessoas de pele clara. Os filtros solares são comumente usados como proteção contra os danos solares. Eles reduzem a penetração de ondas ultravioleta solares na pele, pela reflexão ou por absorvê-las. A aplicação apropriada de filtro solar é fundamental como estratégia eficaz de saúde pública para prevenção do câncer de pele. Além do uso de fotoprotetores, medidas educativas de prevenção, como conscientização da proteção solar desde a infância, são necessárias pra se tentar diminuir a incidência dos cânceres de pele.

Skin cancer in recent decades has become a public health problem in Brazil, accounting for 25% of all malignant tumors recorded. There is a need to establish strategies for minimizing the problems hindering the adoption of preventive actions. as well as motivate people to adhere to measures for effective photoprotection. The solar exposure has been occurred in an irrational way by most of the people all over the world along with habit changes of everyday life, decreasing the ozone layer and careless to the use of photoprotectors as well. All these factors have contributed meaningfully for the increase of incidence of skin cancer and other cutaneous changes related to inadequate solar exposure. The type of skin cancer most often found in the Brazilian population is not melanoma, basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. The skin melanoma accounts for only 4% of skin tumors, but its mortality is high. When the exposure becomes prolonged and unreasonable risk of developing skin changes related to sun exposure becomes greater, expecially in people with white skin. Sunscreens are commonly used as protection against sun damage. They reduce the penetration of solar ultraviolet waves in the skin by reflecting or absorbing them. Proper application of sunscreen is essential to effective public health strategy for prevention of skin cancer. Besides the use of sunscreens, prevention and educational measures, awareness of sun protection from childhood are necessary to decrease the incidence of skin cancers.

Assessment of knowledge of skin cancer prevention and its relation with sun exposure and photo protection amongst gym academy members on the south of Santa Catarina, Brazil / Avaliação do conhecimento quanto à prevenção do câncer de pele e sua relação com os hábitos da exposição solar e fotoproteção em praticantes de academia de ginástica do sul de Santa Catarina, Brasil

BACKGROUND: Skin cancer is the most frequent neoplasia in several parts of the world and also in Brazil. There is evidence of an increase in morbidity and mortality from skin cancer. Although the incidence of skin cancer is increasing, it is estimated that 45% of all preventable cancers worldwide are skin neoplasias. Several studies have emphasized the need for campaigns to encourage sun protection. OBJECTIVE: To assess the knowledge about skin cancer prevention and its association with sun exposure and photo protection in gym members. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study during January to July 2009, including gym members of both sexes in the city of Criciuma. A self-administered questionnaire was used. The statistical analysis was conducted in a descriptive way in regards to the absolute and relative frequencies of the variables under study. RESULTS: Of the 317 questionnaires studied, 62% were from women and 38% from men. Skin types II and III predominated, and the average age was 27.6 years. 94.3% of the participants reported that they had heard about the risks of sun exposure, mostly in terms of skin cancer risk (80.8%). Most participants, especially women, reported some form of sun protective measure. CONCLUSION: The population studied, similar to that in other regions of Brazil and the world, is aware of the risks of excessive sun exposure and skin cancer prevention, but has not yet incorporated appropriate sun protection measures into their daily habits.

FUNDAMENTOS: O câncer da pele é a neoplasia de maior incidência em várias partes do mundo e também no Brasil. Há evidências de aumento da morbidade e mortalidade por câncer da pele. Embora a incidência do câncer da pele esteja aumentando, há estimativas de que em todo o mundo 45% dos cânceres passíveis de prevenção sejam cutâneos. Diversos estudos têm enfatizado a necessidade de campanhas de incentivo à fotoproteção. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o conhecimento quanto à prevenção do câncer da pele e relacioná-lo com os hábitos da exposição solar e fotoproteção em praticantes de academias de ginástica. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal, descritivo e quantitativo durante o ano de 2009, incluindo praticantes de academias de ginástica em Criciúma, SC, por meio de um questionário autoaplicável. A análise estatística foi realizada de forma descritiva das frequências absolutas e relativas das variáveis em estudo. RESULTADOS: Dos 317 entrevistados, 62% eram do sexo feminino. Prevaleceram os fototipos III e II, e a média de idade foi de 27,6 anos. 94,3% dos entrevistados referiram já ter ouvido falar sobre os riscos da exposição solar, sendo o câncer da pele o mais citado (80,8%). A maior parte das pessoas confirmou o uso de alguma medida de fotoproteção, sendo a maioria delas mulheres. CONCLUSÃO: A população estudada, assim como em outras regiões do Brasil e do mundo, tem noção dos riscos da exposição solar excessiva e das medidas preventivas para o câncer da pele, porém ainda não inseriu em seus hábitos as medidas de fotoproteção de forma adequada.

Sun exposure and sun protection habits in high school students from a city south of the country / Práticas de exposição e proteção solar em estudantes do ensino médio de uma cidade do sul do país

BACKGROUND: Effective solar protection is an uncommon practice among young people, increasing the likelihood of sunburn, sunstroke and skin cancers. This fact is more significant in the south of Brazil, where the prevalence of white skinned population is larger, being more prone to sun damage. OBJECTIVES: To study the practices of sun exposure and sun protection in high school students from the city of Carlos Barbosa - RS. METHODS: Cross-sectional study involving 775 students, enrolled on the first half of 2010, who had signed the consent form. We used a non-identifiable, self-administered questionnaire, with questions about related topics. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square or Fisher exact and t-Student tests. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee under the number 2010-115H. RESULTS: Most students are exposed to the sun at the more critical periods, remaining exposed for more than an hour. Five hundred and seventy-six students (74,3%) reported using sunscreen, but less than 10% did it during all months of the year. Female teenagers are most likely to use sunscreen (p <0.001) and to spend less time exposed to sunlight (p <0.001). CONCLUSION: Most high school students from Carlos Barbosa had unsuitable sun exposure and sun protection habits, characterizing a high risk behavior for skin diseases. The existence of public programs for clarification of the risks to the population and the subsidization of sun protection products were suggested by these young people.

FUNDAMENTOS: A proteção solar efetiva é uma prática incomum entre os jovens, aumentando a probabilidade de queimaduras solares, insolações e cânceres de pele. Esse fato é mais significativo na Região Sul do Brasil, onde a prevalência da população branca é maior, sendo mais propensa aos danos causados pelo sol. OBJETIVOS: Estudar as práticas de exposição e proteção solar em estudantes do ensino médio da cidade de Carlos Barbosa, RS. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, envolvendo 775 estudantes matriculados no primeiro semestre de 2010, que tiveram o termo de consentimento assinado. Utilizou-se um questionário não identificável, autoaplicável, com perguntas abordando tópicos relacionados ao tema. Na análise estatística, foram utilizados os testes qui-quadrado ou exato de Fisher e o teste t-Student. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa sob o código 2010-115H. RESULTADOS: A maioria dos estudantes se expõem ao sol no horário mais crítico, permanecendo expostos por período superior a uma hora. Quinhentos e setenta e seis alunos (74,3%) referiram utilizar protetor solar, mas menos de 10,0% deles o fazem durante todos os meses do ano. As adolescentes são as que mais usam filtro solar (p < 0,001) e permanecem menos tempo expostas ao sol (p < 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: A maioria dos estudantes de ensino médio de Carlos Barbosa tem hábitos inadequados de exposição e proteção solar, caracterizando comportamento de risco para doenças de pele. A existência de programas públicos de esclarecimento dos riscos à população e o subsídio de produtos para a proteção solar foram sugeridos por esses jovens.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices about sun exposure and photoprotection in outpatients attending dermatology clinics at four hospitals in Lima, Peru / Exposição solar e conhecimento, atitudes e práticas de fotoproteção em pacientes de unidades ambulatoriais de dermatologia em quatro hospitais de Lima, Peru

BACKGROUND: To establish the knowledge, about sun exposure and photoprotection in outpatients treated at the dermatology clinics in four hospitals in Lima, Peru. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving a sample of 364 patients selected using a systematic random sampling process in the four participating hospitals. The selected patients were interviewed to determine their knowledge, behavior and practices in relation to sun exposure and photoprotection. The chi-square test was used to identify any significant differences between knowledge and practices. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients in this sample was 45.1 ± 21.4 years. Of the 364 patients, 55.9 percent were women and 54.8 percent had skin phototype IV. The principal risks related to sun exposure were skin cancer (80.5 percent) and sunburn (77.8 percent). Knowledge regarding sun protection was more evident in individuals with university/college education (p<0.001). In addition, 78.9 percent of the individuals reported that they knew about photo-protectors and 52.3 percent stated that they used them regularly. In general, women were more knowledgeable regarding sun protection (p=0.001). Of the total number of users of photoprotection, 38.4 percent used these products daily, while 61.6 percent used them only occasionally. The use of photo-protectors differed significantly in accordance with the individual's education level (p<0.001). In the majority of cases there was a statistically significant difference between knowledge and practice with respect to solar protection. CONCLUSIONS: The level of awareness of the outpatients treated at the dermatology clinics in these four hospitals in Lima, Peru about the risks of sun exposure is acceptable; however, a large proportion fail to incorporate regular solar protection as a practice in their daily life.

FUNDAMENTOS: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o conhecimento, sobre a exposição solar e fotoproteção em pacientes ambulatoriais tratados nas unidades de dermatologia de quatro hospitais em Lima, Peru. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal. A amostra foi formada por 364 pacientes originários dos quatro hospitais participantes. Os pacientes foram selecionados através de um processo de amostragem aleatória sistemática. Uma vez selecionados, os pacientes foram entrevistados para determinação do conhecimento, atitudes e práticas em relação à exposição ao sol e à fotoproteção. O teste do qui-quadrado foi usado para determinar diferenças significativas entre conhecimento e práticas. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes tinham em média 45,1±21,4 anos de idade, 55,9 por cento eram mulheres e 54,8 por cento tinham pele fototipo IV. Os principais riscos relacionados à exposição solar foram câncer de pele (80,5 por cento) e queimaduras solares (77,8 por cento). Participantes com nível universitário apresentaram maior conhecimento sobre proteção solar (p <0,001). O conhecimento de fotoprotetores foi relatado por 78,9 por cento dos participantes enquanto o uso periódico dos fotoprotetores foi relatado por 52,3 por cento. As mulheres tinham conhecimento amplamente maior sobre proteção solar (p = 0,001). Do total de usuários de fotoprotetores, 38,4 por cento usavam o produto diariamente e 61,6 por cento usavam somente ocasionalmente. O uso de fotoprotetores variou significantemente com o nível de escolaridade (p <0,001). Na maioria dos casos se encontrou diferença estatisticamente significante entre o conhecimento sobre fotoproteção e práticas de fotoproteção. CONCLUSÕES: Os pacientes ambulatoriais tratados nas unidades de dermatologia desses quatro hospitais em Lima têm um nível aceitável de conhecimento mas um grande número deles não haviam incorporado práticas de fotoproteção nas rotinas pessoais.

Proteção à radiação ultravioleta: recursos disponíveis na atualidade em fotoproteção / Ultraviolet radiation protection: current available resources in photoprotection

A radiação ultravioleta pode provocar danos ao DNA, imunossupressão, alterações químicas e histológicas na epiderme, envelhecimento precoce, cataratas e carcinogênese, dentre outras deteriorações. A fotoproteção previne estes e outros efeitos danosos da radiação ultravioleta. Protetores solares, vestimentas, acessórios adequados e exposição segura ao sol são ferramentas essenciais da fotoproteção. Neste artigo, são apresentadas e discutidas as principais formas de fotoproteção, incluindo os protetores solares com filtros inorgânicos e orgânicos, a avaliação da eficácia dos mesmos e atualizações envolvendo o tema.

Ultraviolet radiation can damage the DNA, cause immunosuppression, chemical and histological alterations in the epidermis, early photoaging, cataracts and carcinogenesis, among others. Photoprotection prevents these and other harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Sunscreens, protective clothing, proper accessories and safe sun exposure are essential photoprotection tools. The main forms of photoprotection are presented and discussed in this article, including sunscreens containing organic and inorganic filters, the assessment of their efficacy and current developments on the topic.

Disposición a la modificación de conductas de fotoprotección en estudiantes universitarios / Sun-protective behavioral changes in university students

Introducción: La exposición regular o prolongada a la luz solar se asocia a tasas más altas de cáncer de piel. El modelo transteórico del cambio de comportamiento (TTM) se ha utilizado con eficacia para explicar el patrón de adquisición y el cese de una variedad de comportamientos que potencialmente ponen en riesgo la salud. Éste consta de etapas del cambio denominadas de precontemplación (no pensado en el cambio), contemplación (considerando seriamente cambiar) y acción (inicio manifiesto del cambio de conducta). Objetivo: Evaluar según TTM la etapa de cambio en que se encuentra una muestra de universitarios y su correlación a sus hábitos de fotoexposición. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio prospectivo en 50 universitarios, a los cuales se les efectuó un cuestionario sobre conductas de fotoprotección y un cuestionario de disposición a la modificación de conductas de fotoprotección (RASP-B). Resultados: De los 50 universitarios, un 58 por ciento fueron mujeres, la edad media fue de 20 años y sus fototipos fueron 22 por ciento tipo II, 40 por ciento tipo III y 38 por ciento tipo IV. Un 68 por ciento reportaron el uso de fotoprotectores en las vacaciones en caso de exposición solar, sólo el 22 por ciento se lo reaplicaban y un 78 por ciento no usaban fotoprotector durante el resto del año. Un 48 por ciento de los universitarios estaban en etapa de acción , 18 por ciento en contemplación y 34 por ciento en precontemplación. Los universitarios en etapa de acción se asociaron a mayor uso de fotoprotectores (p=0.028), mayor uso de elementos de barrera (p=0049), menor exposición solar entre las 11 am y 3 pm (p=0019) y menor frecuencia de quemaduras solares con ampollas (p=0.02). Conclusión: La determinación de la etapa de disposición a cambiar los comportamientos de protección solar permite la planificación y la ejecución de intervenciones eficaces dirigidas a cada una de ellas que puedan ayudar a aumentar el nivel individual de fotoprotección (etapa de acción).

Introduction: Regular or prolonged sun ligth exposure is associated with higher rates of skin cancer. The transtheorical model (TTM) of behavior change has been effectively used to explain the adquisition and ending pattern of a variety of potential healththreatening behaviors. This model has stages of change called precontemplation (not thinking about change), contemplation (seriously considering changing) and action (manifest onset of behavioral change). Objective: to evaluate according to the TTM the stage of change found on a group of university students and to relate it to their habits of sun light exposure. Patients and methods: Cross sectional study in 50 university students which were evaluated through a questionnaire of sun-protective behavior and a questionnaire of sun-protective behavior (RASP-B). Results: Of the 50 university students, 58 percent were women, the mean age was 20 and their phototype were 22 percent type II, 40 percent type III and 38 percent type IV. A 68 percent reported the use of sunscreen on vacations, only 22 percent re-applied it and 78 percent did not use any sunscreen during the rest of the year. A 48 percent of university students were in action stage, 18 percent in contemplation and 34 percent in precontemplation. The student in action stage were associated with more use of sunscreen (p=0,028) and barrier elements (p=0,049), less sun exposure between 11 am and 3 pm (P=0,019) and lower frequency of sunburn with blisters (p=0.02). Conclusion: Determining the stage of readiness to alter sun-protective behavior allows for effective planning of interventions that can help increase the individual level of sun protection (action stage) which may decrease the probably of skin cancer.

intervention based on protection motivation theory in reducing skin cancer risk

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable, curable and treatable of all other cancers. In the past decade, the rates for most cancers, specially the skin cancers increased visibly. Sun exposure is a major causative factor for skin cancer for which prevention is possible. Protection motivation theory [PMT] provides one model for increasing healthy behavior through persuasive communication. We apply this theory for skin cancer prevention behavior. This was an experimental study. Participants were 360 female students from four high schools in Yazd city, Iran that divided in two groups [180 in case and 180 in control group]. A self-report questionnaire was used to assess the variables in the PMT model at pretest, post-test and follow-up. The questionnaire was distributed before the intervention [pre-test] and afterwards [post-test] and following at a 2 month lag. For data analysis ANOVA, T-test, Wilcoxon, Pearson's correlation and coefficient were used. A significant difference between all variables except fear was noted in the case and control groups in follow-up [p=0.00]. There was significant difference between mean grades score of all of variables in case group, in pre-test and follow up. No significant difference was seen between mean grade scores of variables in control group in pre-test and follow up. There is significant difference between using methods for prevention skin cancer in case and control group after intervention. Results support the effectiveness of a PMT-based intervention to change the attitude and behavior associated with skin cancer risk. Theory-based intervention can motivate people to alert their attitudes and behaviors regarding sun exposure