Relationship of vitamin D intake and sun exposure with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D in schoolchildren with obesity

The obesity worldwide has produced an increase in obesity-related diseases and can be associated with low concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D. Also obesity and low physical activity can decrease sun exposure, so the aim was to correlate vitamin D intake with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels and to assess sun exposure habits in schoolchildren with obesity. Materials and methods. A correlational study was performed from January 2017 to January 2018 on 103 children between 6-12 years of age, with a body mass index ≥+2SD for age and sex, according to the World Health Organization. Blood samples were taken to determine the serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D, a nutritional survey to determine the vitamin D intake and a sun exposure questionnaire were applied. A Spearman correlation coefficient analysis was performed. Results. Forty-seven percent of the children were girls. The median years of age was 10. The median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels were 35.5 ng/mL, 74.8% had sufficient levels, 25.2% had insufficient levels. The median vitamin D intake was 214.7IU in boys and 231.9IU in girls. Regarding sun exposure, most of the children had excessive levels of sun exposure and inadequate sun protection practices. A positive correlation between vitamin D intake and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D was identified only in boys (rho=0.276, p=0.041). Conclusion. A positive correlation between vitamin D intake and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels was found in obese boys and excessive levels of sun exposure with inadequate sun protection practices in boys and girls(AU)

La obesidad se le ha asociado con distintas comorbilidades, bajas concentraciones séricas de 25-hidroxivitamina-D, sedentarismo que a su vez podría comprometer la exposición solar; por tanto, el objetivo fue relacionar la ingesta de vitamina D con los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina-D y determinar los hábitos de exposición solar en escolares con obesidad. Materiales y métodos. Estudio correlacional realizado de enero 2017 a enero 2018, en 103 niños entre 6 y 12 años, con un índice de masa corporal ≥+2DE para edad y sexo, según la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Se extrajo muestras sanguíneas para determinar las concentraciones séricas de 25-hidroxivitamina-D, se aplicó una encuesta nutricional para determinar la ingesta de vitamina D y un cuestionario de exposición solar. Se realizó un análisis del coeficiente de correlación de Spearman. Resultados. El 47% de los sujetos eran niñas. La mediana de edad fue de 10. La mediana de los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina-D fue de 35,5 ng/mL, el 74,8% tenía niveles suficientes, el 25,2% tenía niveles insuficientes. La mediana de la ingesta de vitamina D fue de 214,7UI en niños y de 231,9UI en niñas. Con respecto a la exposición solar, la mayoría de los niños presentaban una exposición excesiva y prácticas inadecuadas de protección solar. Se identificó una correlación positiva entre la ingesta de vitamina D y la 25-hidroxivitamina-D sérica en los niños (rho=0,276, p=0,041). Conclusión. Se identificó una correlación positiva entre la ingesta de vitamina D y los niveles séricos de 25-hidroxivitamina-D en niños obesos y exposición excesiva con prácticas inadecuadas de protección solar en niños y niñas(AU)

Insuficiência de vitamina D e fatores associados: um estudo com idosos assistidos por serviços de atenção básica à saúde / Vitamin D insufficiency and factors associated: a study with older adults people from primary health care network

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a insuficiência de vitamina D e fatores associados em idosos assistidos na atenção primária à saúde. Trata-se de um estudo transversal que avaliou 533 idosos (≥ 60 anos) em três cidades do estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Foi avaliada a 25-hidroxivitamina D (25 OH D) sérica por quimioluminescência. Os fatores avaliados foram condições sociodemográficas (sexo, faixa etária, etnia, escolaridade, renda, estado civil), de saúde (doenças referidas), composição corporal (IMC, circunferência da cintura), estilo de vida (atividade física e tabagismo) e exposição solar (finalidade, duração, frequência e horário de exposição, partes expostas, uso de protetor solar, tipo de pele). A prevalência de insuficiência foi de 64,5%, com associação para sexo feminino, etnia não brancos/não declarados, baixo peso, circunferência da cintura elevada (risco para DCV) e inatividade física. Houve associação negativa para exposição solar habitual de mãos, braços e pernas, durante atividade de lazer, deslocamentos diários e atividade física e entre as 9h e 15h. Os achados mostram a relevância de fatores como sexo, etnia, composição corporal, atividade física e hábitos de exposição solar na alta prevalência de níveis inadequados de vitamina D em idosos.

Abstract This article aims to analyze vitamin D insufficiency and factors associated among older adults using primary health care services. This is a cross-sectional study that evaluated 533 older adults individuals (≥ 60 years old) in three cities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) was evaluated by chemiluminescence. The factors evaluated were sociodemographic information (sex, age group, ethnicity, education, income, marital status), health conditions (reported diseases), body composition (BMI, waist circumference), lifestyle (physical activity and smoking), and sun exposure (purpose, duration, frequency, time of exposure, exposed body parts, use of sunscreen, skin type). The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency was 64.5%, presenting association with female participants, non-white/unreported ethnicity, low weight, high waist circumference (risk for CVD - cardiovascular disease), and physical inactivity. Negative association was observed with habitual sun exposure of hands, arms and legs, during leisure activities, daily commuting and physical activity, and between 9 am and 3 pm. The findings show the relevance of factors such as sex, ethnicity, body composition, physical activity, and sun exposure habits in the high prevalence of inadequate levels of vitamin D among older adults.

Carcinome épidermoïde conjonctival invasif: à propos de 2 cas / Invasive squamous cell carcinoma: about 2 cases

Les tumeurs conjonctivales sont fréquentes dans les zones tropicales,où l'exposition aux rayons ultraviolets est forte et quasi permanente. Les tumeurs malignes sont assez rares et la plus représentée est le carcinome épidermoïde de la conjonctive.Nous rapportons deux cas de carcinome épidermoïde invasif de la conjonctive reçus dans le service d'ophtalmologie de l'hôpital Sominé Dolo de Mopti au Mali. Il s'agissait de deux patientes de 25 et 51 ans, vivant en zone rurale et désertique exposées aux rayons solaires et à la poussière. Elles présentaient une masse développée dans l'aire de la fente palpébrale, envahissant la cornée et empêchant l'occlusion palpébrale. La masse était en relief, multi lobulée, bien circonscrite, de couleur blanc nacré et d'aspect papillomateux avec une dilatation des vaisseaux nourriciers. Une exérèse chirurgicale large à 4 - 5 mm des berges de tissu sain a été réalisée avec examen anatomopathologique de la pièce qui a confirmé un carcinome épidermoïde différencié mature et invasif de la conjonctive. Le bilan d'extension et la sérologie HIV étaient négatifs. L'évolution était favorable à moyen terme sans récidive

Conjunctival tumors are common in tropical areas, where exposure to ultraviolet radiation is high and almost permanent. Malignant tumors are quite rare and the most represented is conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma. We report two cases of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva received in the ophthalmology department of the Sominé Dolo hospital in Mopti, Mali. The patients were 25 and 51 years old, living in a rural desert area exposed to sunlight and dust. They presented with a mass developed in the area of the palpebral fissure, invading the cornea and preventing palpebral occlusion. The mass was raised, multi-lobulated, well circumscribed, pearly white in color and papillomatous in appearance with dilation of the feeder vessels. A wide surgical excision at 4 - 5 mm from the healthy tissue edges was performed with anatomopathological examination of the specimen, which confirmed a mature and invasive differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva. The extension workup and HIV serology were negative. The evolution was favorable in the medium term without recurrence

Factores de riesgo en pacientes miopes en edad pediátrica / Risk factors in pediatric myopic patients

Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación entre los factores de riesgo en pacientes miopes en edad pediátrica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio con diseño de casos y control para evaluar los factores de riesgo asociados a la miopía en los pacientes atendidos en la consulta del Servicio de Oftalmología Pediátrica del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer". La muestra estuvo conformada por 263 pacientes (123 casos y 140 controles) que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y de exclusión. Las variables del estudio fueron la edad, el sexo, el color de la piel, la zona de procedencia, el bajo peso al nacer, la prematuridad, las madres fumadoras, el antecedente de familiares con defectos refractivos, las horas de exposición a las pantallas, las horas de exposición a la luz solar y la longitud axial. Resultados: Se encontró correlación entre el antecedente de familiares con defecto refractivo y la presencia de miopía (p = 0,009), y a su vez un riesgo de 1,9 de padecerla; más de 2 horas - pantallas se relaciona con pacientes miopes (p = 0,003) y duplica el riesgo. Más de 2 horas de luz solar fue más frecuente en los controles (p = 0,004) y es un factor de protección; las longitudes axiales fueron mayores en miopes (p = 0,000) y se correlacionó la exposición horas - pantallas con una mayor longitud axial. Conclusiones: Los antecedentes familiares de defectos refractivos aumentan 1,9 veces el riesgo de padecer miopía; la exposición a las pantallas por más de 2 horas al día lo duplica y la exposición a la luz solar por el mismo tiempo lo reduce a la mitad. La longitud axial es mayor en miopes y en los expuestos a las pantallas(AU)

Objective: Evaluate the association between risk factors in pediatric myopic patients. Methods: A case-control study was conducted to evaluate the risk factors associated to myopia in patients attending the Pediatric Ophthalmology Service at Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology. The sample was 263 patients (123 cases and 140 controls) who met the inclusion criteria. The study variables were age, sex, skin color, place of residence, low birth weight, prematurity, smoking mothers, a family history of refractive defects, screen time, sun exposure hours and axial length. Results: A correlation was found between a family history of refractive defects and the presence of myopia (p = 0.009), as well as a 1.9 risk of developing the disorder. More than two screen hours were associated to myopic patients (p = 0.003), doubling the risk. More than two sun exposure hours were more frequent among controls (p = 0.004) and constitute a protection factor. Axial lengths were greater among myopics (p = 0.000). Exposure and screen time were correlated with greater axial length. Conclusions: A family history of refractive defects increases the risk for myopia 1.9 times, exposure to screens for more than two hours per day doubles it, and the same number of sun exposure hours reduces it to half. Axial length is greater among myopics and screen exposed people(AU)

Conductas de exposición y protección solar en adolescentes y adultos de la Ciudad de México / Sun exposure and sun protection behaviors among teenagers and adults in Mexico City

Resumen Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de las conductas exposición y protección solar en un grupo de adolescentes y compararlos con un grupo de adultos en la Ciudad de México. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal descriptivo en estudiantes de 16 a 18 años y en adultos mayores de 18 años. Resultados: Se encuestaron 748 alumnos, 60 % mujeres y 40 % hombres. El 90 % busca la sombra, el 70.1 % evita exponerse al sol de las 10 a las 16 horas y el 30.6 % usa filtro solar. De 620 adultos, 67.5 % mujeres y 32.4 % hombres, el 82.6 % buscan la sombra, el 60.2 % evita el sol de las 10 a las 16 horas y el 48.1 % utiliza filtro solar. El 72.9 % de adultos y el 80.8 % de adolescentes se exponen al sol debido a actividades domésticas. Discusión: Existe una tendencia similar en las conductas de protección y exposición solar en adolescentes y adultos. Es alta la prevalencia de uso de fotoprotector en adultos en comparación con los adolescentes.

Abstract Objective: To know the prevalence of sun exposure and protection behaviors in a group of adolescents and to compare them with a group of adults in Mexico City. Material and methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study in students aged 16 to 18 years and in adults older than 18 years. Results: Seven-hundred and forty-eight students were surveyed; 60 % were females and 40 % males; 90 % seek shade, 70.1 % avoid exposing themselves to the sun from 10.00 to 16.00 hours and 30.6 % use sunscreen. Out of 620 adults, 67.5 % were women and 32.4 % were men; 82.6 % seek shade, 60.2 % avoid the sun from 10.00 to 16.00 hours and 48.1% use sunscreen; 72.9 % of adults and 80.8 % of adolescents are exposed to the sun due to domestic activities. Discussion: There is a similar trend in sun protection and exposure behaviors in adolescents and adults. The prevalence of sunscreen use in adults is high in comparison with adolescents.

Inadequate vitamin D level: association with low energy fractures of distal radius in young patients and its predictors in Karachi, Pakistan

Background:The objective of the study was to determine association of inadequacy of vitamin D level with low energy fractures of distal radius and its predictors in young patients in Karachi Pakistan. Methods:Cross-sectional study was conducted on 220 young patients, visited hospital with low energy fracture of distal radius.A questionnaire was designed and filled after taking consent includes details regarding age, gender, occupation, area of skin and sun exposure duration, dietary habits, type of clothing and residence used. Serum Vitamin D3 levels were determined and compared with serum calcium levels, serum phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase levels.Results:Among 220 patients ranging from 12-45 years, mean 28±23.33SD. Female were 172(78.18%). Mostly have history of fall 127(57.72%)and RTA 63(28.63). Sun exposure duration in majority of participant was 1-2 hour/day 132(60%). Variable coloured clothes used by majority participant 135(61.36%) and variable fabric 102(46.36%). 202(91.8%) patients had deficiency of vitamin D and correlated with duration of sunlight exposure significantly, also with exposure of large skin area, dietary consumption of vitamin D rich food and worn variable clothing colours. Serum phosphorus level and serum alkaline phosphatase level were negatively correlated with vitamin D significantly whereas positively correlated with serum calcium.Conclusions:Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is very high in low energy fracture of distal radius in young populationand sun exposure duration found to be most common predictor of inadequate D levels. A national food fortification program and campaign of public awareness to increase sunlight exposure and increase intake of vitamin D rich food are urgently needed.

Sun Exposure, Dietary Vitamin D and Vitamin D Status in Adult Atopic Dermatitis: A Case Control Study

@#Atopic dermatitis (AD) and its severity has been inconsistently associated with lower vitamin D levels as multiple other factors that influence vitamin D status were not always assessed. Methods: A case control study involving AD patients and controls ≥18 years old was performed. Exclusion criteria were systemic immunosuppression ≤ 4 weeks prior to recruitment, renal or hepatic impairment, parathyroid diseases and vitamin D or calcium supplementation. Healthy controls were matched for age, gender, ethnicity, Fitzpatrick skin type and body mass index (BMI). Sun exposure, a 3-day, 24-hour dietary recall and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D were measured. Results: 38 AD patients and 38 controls participated. Majority had Fitzpatrick skin type IV. Vitamin D was lower in AD [15.9(9.9-24.0)ng/ml] than controls [17.3(14.4-27.2)ng/ml], p= 0.028. It was sufficient in 16(42.1%) AD and 15(39.5%) controls, insufficient in 7(18.4%) AD and 22(57.9%) controls and deficient in 15(39.5%) AD compared to 1(2.6%) control. Sun exposure was similar in both groups. AD had significantly higher dietary vitamin D intake [1.5(0.6-3.1) vs 0.6 (0.3-1.0)µg]. AD was an independant risk for vitamin D deficiency with OR 17.52; 95%CI:1.4- 212.7 and vitamin D insufficiency OR 0.26;95%CI:0.07-0.95. Vitamin D levels did not correlate with AD severity. Conclusion: AD is a risk for vitamin D deficiency despite higher dietary intake and similar skin type, BMI and sun exposure as controls.

Awareness regarding the importance of vitamin D and prevention of its deficiency among female undergraduate medical students

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a common nutritional disorder that has assumed epidemic proportion. One of the major reasons for the worldwide spread of this disorder has been deficient awareness about the importance of vitamin D, its benefits on health, and prevention of deficiency state across different populations. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is widely prevalent in this part of the country (Kashmir valley, India), the prevalence being higher in females. This study was conducted to assess the awareness of female medical students regarding the importance of vitamin D and the prevention of its deficiency among them.Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 113 female medical students. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of two parts was used to collect data. The first part was for identifying socio-demographic characters and the second half was a 12-question, multiple-choice survey focussing on vitamin D. Data was entered and analysed using computer software MS Excel.Results: The results of the study showed that the participants had good knowledge regarding some aspects while knowledge for other aspects was poor. The majority of participants had adequate knowledge about main source/dietary source of vitamin D, the site of synthesis, effect of vitamin D on bone health, main effects of deficiency on bone health, identification of high-risk groups and importance of supplements in management of deficiency. However, majority had inadequate knowledge about the epidemic state of VDD, RDA, time/duration of sun exposure and other effects of deficiency.Conclusions: The present study showed that there are some gaps in awareness about vitamin D, its benefits, and management of deficiency among female medical students.

Sun exposure and Vitamin D in rural India: A cross-sectional study

Background: Vitamin D deficiency/Vitamin D Insufficiency (VDI) is now recognized as a pandemic. Cutaneous exposure to ultraviolet-B causes photolysis of epidermal 7-dehydrocholesterol, converting it to pre-Vitamin D3 (precholecalciferol), which then undergoes isomerization to form the stable hormone Vitamin D3. Objectives: The objectives of the study is to determine the status of Vitamin D level among the adults residing in a rural area of West Bengal and to find out the optimal cutoff of the sun exposure for Vitamin D sufficiency. Methods: This study was a rural community based cross-sectional study. It was done from May 2016 to April 2017 among 197 adults residing in a rural block of West Bengal. Data were collected by interviewing the respondents with the help of a structured pre-tested pre-designed schedule. After interviewing, every individual was examined for height and weight and blood was collected for serum Vitamin 25-(OH) D. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to find out optimum cut-off for sun exposure using Youden's index. Binary logistic regression was performed to find out the associates of high sun exposure. All analysis was done using R. Results: Overall VDI was found in 133 (67.5%). Among them, 102 (51.8%) were female. On ROC curve for veritable sun exposure for Vitamin D sufficiency, area under curve was 0.7841 which signifies veritable sun exposure as a good screening tool. Conclusion: Proper information, education, and communication material regarding various aspects of sun exposure and Vitamin D should be prepared with due consultation of field experts and disseminated to increase awareness among the community.

Sun Exposure Among Healthy Adults in a Health Facility

@#Introduction: Sun exposure is a risk for skin cancer but is beneficial for multiple other diseases. Recommendations for photoprotection are well defined, guidelines for optimal sun exposure is not clear. We determined sun exposure in healthy adults, considering their skin phototype and amount of skin exposed. Methods: A cross sectional study was performed involving healthy adults working in a tertiary health facility. Fitzpatrick skin phototype quiz was used to determine skin phototype. Sun exposure was quantified as an index (SEI); body surface area exposed times duration of exposure. Results: We recruited 167 volunteers, 110(66%) women and 56(34%) men. Mean age was 29.77±6.58 years, 124(74.7%) were Malay, 27(16.3%) Chinese, 14(8.4%) Indians and 1(0.6%) of other ethnicity. Fitzpatrick skin phototypes were 30(18.1%) type III, 109(65.7%) type IV and 27(16.3%) type V. Exposed body surface area was 13.96±8.33% in males and 14.55±9.58% in females. The duration of sun exposure per week in males was 11.52±6.11hours and 10.71±5.75 hours in females. Mean SEI was 160 ±144. The SEI in females was 158 ±151, 164 ±130 in males, p value =0.81. There were no significant differences in SEI between gender and skin phototypes. Conclusion: SEI was very low in our study population due to limited body surface area exposed and duration of sun exposure. SEI was higher in darker skin and males, however these were not statistically significant.

Does the Access to Sun Exposure Ensure Adequate Levels of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D? / A exposição ao sol assegura níveis adequados de 25-hidroxivitamina D?

Abstract Objectives To assess the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D, altered arterial blood pressure, and serum levels of glucose and lipids in community-dwelling women in the city of Ribeirão Preto, in the southeast of Brazil. Methods Thiswas a cross-sectional studyof women aged40-70years old.Calciumintake and level of sun exposure were assessed by means of a questionnaire. A blood sample was used to determine glucose, lipid profile and 25-hydroxyvitaminD(25[OH]D) concentration. Results Ninety-one women were enrolled (age = 54.2 ± 7.1 years). Themean serum 25(OH)D concentration was 25.7 ± 8.9 ng/mL. A total of 24 (26.4%) women had 25 (OH)D levels < 20 ng/mL. Seventy women (76.9%) had 25(OH)D levels < 30 ng/mL. Seventy-five women (90.4%) had inadequate calcium intake, and 61 women (67%) had appropriate sun exposure, 49 of whom (80.3%) had serum 25(OH)D levels < 30 ng/mL. Conclusion This study indicates that even in community-dwelling women, living in a city with high sun exposure, serum levels of 25(OH)D > 30 ng/ml are hardly reached. Thus, it is probable that other intrinsic factors besides sun exposure may regulate the levels of vitamin D.

Resumo Objetivos Estimar a prevalência de hipovitaminose D, hipertensão arterial, e níveis séricos de glicose e perfil lipídico em uma comunidade de mulheres de Ribeirão Preto, no Sudeste brasileiro. Métodos Estudo transversal com mulheres de 40 a 70 anos de idade, submetidas a um questionário para determinar ingestão diária de cálcio e nível de exposição solar, e coleta de sangue para determinar glicose, perfil lipídico e concentração de 25- hidroxivitamina D (25[OH]D). Resultados Noventa e uma mulheres foram incluídas (idade = 54,2 ± 7,1 anos). O nível sérico médio de 25(OH)D foi 25,7 ± 8,9 ng/mL. Um total de 24 (26,4%) mulheres teve níveis de 25(OH)D < 20 ng/mL. Setenta mulheres (76.9%) tiveram níveis de 25 (OH)D < 30 ng/mL. Setenta e uma mulheres (90.4%) tiveram uma ingesta inadequada de cálcio e 61 mulheres (67%) tiveram exposição solar adequada; 49 das quais (80.3%) tiveram níveis séricos de 25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL. Conclusão Este estudo indica que mesmo morando em uma cidade com exposição solar adequada, níveis séricos de 25(OH)D > 30 ng/mL dificilmente são atingidos por mulheres climatéricas. Logo, é provável que outros fatores intrínsecos podem regular o nível de vitamina D.

Unveiling the risk factors behind melasma: An observational study

Background: Melasma is a common, acquired, recurrent and chronic disorder of hypermelanosis. It is distributed symmetrically and affects the sun-exposed areas mainly the face (forehead, cheeks, upper lip and chin), and manifests as light to dark brown patches of hyperpigmentation. The objective of this study is to identify the major predisposing and aggravating factors of melasma. Materials and methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study, conducted in the Dermatology OPD of Meenakshi Medical College, among 100 patients with melasma for a period of 18 months. Melasma was diagnosed clinically and using Wood’s lamp examination. Factors such as the age at presentation, gender, duration of sun exposure per day, family history, intake of precipitating drugs and systemic diseases were assessed. Results: Most of the patients were in the age group of 36-45 years and the majority of patients were females. Sun exposure for >2 hours was observed to be an important triggering factor. Positive family history was present in 46% patients, 12 patients had a history of intake of precipitating drugs and 30 patients had systemic diseases. Conclusion: It can be concluded from this study that the above factors play a significant role in the development and prognosis of melasma. Sun exposure for longer duration was observed to be a very important factor, especially because of the climatic conditions prevailing here. So elimination of the exacerbating factors and treatment of associated systemic conditions are important in the management along with the therapeutic agents.

A Clinical Study of Multiple Non-melanoma Skin Cancers over 4 Years in a Single Institution Center / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs, basal cell carcinoma [BCC], and squamous cell carcinoma, [SCC]) are skin conditions, and the propensity of NMSCs to develop multiple tumors may be associated with some genodermatoses, arsenic poisoning, and chronic exposure to radiation or coal tar. OBJECTIVE: To report our experience of treating multiple NMSCs and to investigate the clinical characteristics of NMSCs. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 16 patients who had been diagnosed with NMSCs from May 2010 to December 2014. RESULTS: The male-female sex ratio was 0.6:1 in the patients with multiple BCCs and SCCs. The most frequent age group was the seventh decade (75%). The mean patient age was 76.36 years. The most common involved site was the face, particularly the cheek (54.3%). Nodular BCCs were the most frequent (61.9%), followed by infiltrate BCCs (28.6%) and superficial BCCs (9.5%). Among the SCCs, the moderately differentiated SCCs were the most frequent (50%). More NMSCs were found on the left than on the right side of the head and neck areas in both sexes. Development of BCC (68.8%) was more frequent than that of SCC in sun-exposed areas. CONCLUSION: In our study, differences in the demographic variables, such as age, sex, or residence were found between the patients with multiple BCCs and SCCs. The incidence of BCC has markedly increased, which is mainly because of the increment of aged people in their residence, along with environmental factors. Further cohort studies that include cumulative lifetime sun exposure and a large sample size are needed.

Impact of deficient nutrition in bone mass after bariatric surgery / Impacto da deficiência nutricional na massa óssea após cirurgia bariátrica

Background : Essential nutrients are considered for the prevention of the bone loss that occurs after bariatric surgery. Aim : Evaluate nutrients involved in bone metabolism, and relate to serum concentrations of calcium, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone, and the use of supplements and sun exposure on the bone mass of patients who had undergone gastric bypass surgery. Methods : An observational study, with patients who had undergone the surgery 12 or more months previously, operated group (OG), compared to a control group (CG). Results : Were included 56 in OG and 27 in the CG. The mean age was 36.4±8.5 years. The individuals in the OG, compared to CG, consumed inadequate amounts of protein and daily calcium. The OG had a higher prevalence of low sun exposure, lower levels of 25OH Vitamin D (21.3±10.9 vs. 32.1±11.8 ng/dl), and increased serum levels of parathyroid hormone (68.1±32.9 vs. 39.9±11.9 pg/ml, p<0.001). Secondary hyperparathyroidism was present only in the OG (41.7%). The mean lumbar spine bone mineral density was lower in the OG. Four individuals from the OG had low bone mineral density for chronological age, and no one from the CG. Conclusion : The dietary components that affect bone mass in patients undergoing bariatric surgery were inadequate. The supplementation was insufficient and the sun exposure was low. These changes were accompanied by secondary hyperparathyroidism and a high prevalence of low bone mass in lumbar spine in these subjects.

Racional : Alguns nutrientes são essenciais para a prevenção da perda de massa óssea que ocorre após a cirurgia bariátrica. Objetivo : Avaliar nos pacientes que foram submetidos à cirurgia bariárica pela técnica de bypass gástrico os nutrientes envolvidos no metabolismo ósseo e sua relação com: a concentração sérica de cálcio; a vitamina D e paratormônio; o uso de suplementos alimentares e a exposição solar. Métodos : Estudo observacional com pacientes que foram previamente submetidos à cirurgia, 12 meses ou mais que compuseram o grupo operado (OG), em comparação a um grupo controle (GC). Resultados : Foram avaliados 56 pacientes no OG e 27 no GC. A média de idade foi de 36,4±8,5 anos. Os indivíduos do OG, em comparação com o CG, consumiram diariamente quantidades insuficientes de proteína e cálcio. O OG apresentou maior prevalência de baixa exposição solar, níveis mais baixos de 25OH vitamina D (21,3±10,9 vs 32,1±11,8 ng/ dL) e aumento dos níveis séricos de paratormônio (68,1±32,9 vs 39,9±11,9 pg/ml, p<0,001). Hiperparatiroidismo secundário foi presente apenas no OG (41,7%). A densidade mineral óssea da coluna lombar foi significativamente menor no OG. Quatro indivíduos do OG tiveram baixa densidade mineral óssea comparado com a idade cronológica, e nenhum do CG. Conclusão : Os componentes da dieta que afetam a massa óssea em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica estavam inadequados. A suplementação alimentar foi insuficiente e a exposição solar baixa. Estas alterações foram acompanhadas de hiperparatireoidismo secundário e alta prevalência de baixa massa óssea em coluna lombar nestes pacientes.

Fotoexposição e fatores de risco para câncer de pele: avaliação de hábitos e conhecimentos da população participante da campanha de prevenção ao câncer de pele em Morro Redondo/RS / Sun exposure and skin cancer risk factors: habits and awareness of the population participating in the skin cancer prevention campaign in Morro Redondo, RS

Introdução: os cânceres de pele são reconhecidamente relacionados à exposição solar que, associada à suscetibilidade individual à radiação ultravioleta, constitui o fator de risco mais importante para o desenvolvimento da doença. Objetivos: relacionar o uso de protetor solar diário ou eventual com conhecimento da relação causal entre o sol e o câncer de pele, tal como a presença ou ausência de lesão de pele suspeita de neoplasia maligna em relação ao conhecimento sobre a relação supracitada. Métodos: um estudo analítico transversal foi realizado através da aplicação de 107 questionários aos participantes da Campanha de Prevenção ao câncer de pele realizada em Morro Redondo-RS. Resultados: uso diário de fotoprotetor foi mais frequente entre as mulheres (21,49%) e a prevalência de lesão suspeita de malignidade nesse grupo foi nula, enquanto que 20,55% dos homens referiram nunca se proteger, e dentre eles o predomínio de lesões suspeitas foi de 7,47%. Observouse que 67% dos entrevistados que tem conhecimento da exposição solar como fator de risco para câncer de pele usam fotoprotetor e, entre os que desconhecem a relação, 56% nunca se protegem. Foi demonstrado que 17% dos que conhecem tal relação tiveram lesão de pele suspeita e, entre os que desconhecem, apenas 1% obteve o mesmo diagnóstico. Conclusão: o uso de fotoprotetor mostrou-se indispensável para prevenção de lesão de pele e este deve ser orientado corretamente. Portanto, campanhas de prevenção ao câncer de pele são importantes para a conscientização da população sobre proteção solar, devendo ser estimuladas.

Introduction: Skin cancers are known to be related to sun exposure, which, associated with individual susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation, is the major risk factor for developing the disease. Aims: To relate the daily or occasional use of sunscreen with awareness of the causal relationship between sun and skin cancer, such as the presence or absence of skin lesions suspected of malignancy in relation to the knowledge of the above-mentioned relationship. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out by administering 107 questionnaires to participants of the Skin Cancer Prevention Campaign held in Morro Redondo, RS. Results: Daily use of sunscreen was more frequent among women (21.49%) and the prevalence of suspected malignant lesions in this group was zero, while 20.55% of men reported they never used it, and among them the predominance of suspicious lesions was 7.47%. It was found that 67% of respondents who are aware of sun exposure as a risk factor for skin cancer use sunscreen, and among those who are unaware of the relationship, 56% never protect themselves. It has been shown that 17% of those who are aware of this relationship did have a suspicious skin lesion, and among those who are unaware only 1% got the same diagnosis. Conclusion: Sunscreen use was shown to be essential for preventing skin damage and must be correctly oriented. Therefore, skin cancer prevention campaigns are important for raising public awareness about sun protection and should be encouraged.

Sun-related behaviors among individuals previously diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer.

Compared to the general population, the risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer is considerably higher among individuals with a previous history of this condition. Protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary evidence-based approach for minimizing this risk. This review was aimed to assess the prevalence of sun-safe behaviors in non-melanoma skin cancer survivors. Searches were conducted in six electronic databases including PubMed, Psyclnfo, CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC and Science Direct. A narrative approach was adopted to synthesize the data. The fi ndings demonstrated that respondents do not protect themselves optimally from UV radiation exposure. Low levels of perceived skin cancer risk, a lack of knowledge about effective sun protection strategies and the inconvenience associated with sun-safe behaviors appear to explain this fi nding. A note of caution is required here, as there is a potential for publication bias. Moreover, the results of this study cannot be generalized to all non-melanoma skin cancer patients. Skin cancer survivors must be educated about their increased risk of future skin cancers. Behavioral interventions must be developed to increase the adoption of skin protective behaviors in this high-risk population group.

A Survey of Attitudes, Knowledge, and Behavior Regarding Sun Exposure and Sunscreen in Korea / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: Although sunscreen is used as a primary strategy for the prevention of sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer, few people regularly use sunscreen. OBJECTIVE: To investigate awareness regarding the effects of sunlight, the extent of sun exposure, and sunscreen use behaviors in Korean subjects. METHODS: A questionnaire was administered to 467 adult patients who visited the Dermatology Department at Seoul National University Boramae Hospital. The questionnaire covered demographic characteristics, causes of wrinkles, sunspots, and skin cancer, awareness of the harmful effects of sun exposure, perceived and actual extent of sun exposure, and the use of sun-protective methods including sunscreen. RESULTS: Sun exposure was selected as the major cause of age spots (60.6%), skin cancer (60.9%), and wrinkles (25.9%). Respondents were likely to underestimate the extent of sun exposure. On average, quite a few respondents stated that they were exposed to sunlight for more than one hour per day (22.7% on weekdays, 52.4% on weekends). However, only 9.4% of respondents thought that their sun exposure was problematic and 62.7% of respondents considered moderate sunlight exposure healthy. Respondents' sun-protective behaviors were inadequate: only 29.8% used sunscreen regularly, and 16.5% have never used sunscreen. SPF was the most important factor in choosing sunscreen, and 83.3% used a sunscreen with a labeled SPF over 30. By contrast, only 34.6% of respondents used PA+++ sunscreen. CONCLUSION: Despite fairly good knowledge regarding the harmful effects of sunlight, subjects underestimated the risks of their sun exposure and sun-protective behaviors were suboptimal. Education on the risk of UV exposure and effects of sunscreen is still needed.

Effects of sun exposure and dietary vitamin D intake on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D status in hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Vitamin D deficiency is common in hemodialysis patients. The aim of this study was to identify whether or not sun exposure and dietary vitamin D intake have effects on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) status in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The objective was to identify the main determinants of serum vitamin D status in the study subjects. SUBJECTS/METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 47 HD patients (19 males and 28 females) was performed. We assessed serum 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels between August and September 2012 and analyzed the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in HD patients. To evaluate the determinants of serum 25(OH)D levels, we surveyed dietary vitamin D intake, degree of sun exposure, and outdoor activities. To compare biological variables, serum 25(OH)D was stratified as below 15 ng/ml or above 15 ng/ml. RESULTS: Mean 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels were 13.5 +/- 5.8 ng/ml and 20.6 +/- 11.8 pg/ml, respectively. The proportions of serum 25(OH)D deficiency ( or = 30 ng/ml) in subjects were 72.4%, 23.4%, and 4.3%, respectively. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in female patients was 78.6%, whereas that in males was 63.2% (P = 0.046). Vitamin D intake and sun exposure time were not significantly different between the two stratified serum 25(OH)D levels. Dietary intake of vitamin D did not contribute to increased serum 25(OH)D levels in HD patients. The main effective factors affecting serum 25(OH)D status were found to be the sun exposure and active outdoor exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Hypovitaminosis D is common in HD patients and is higher in females than in males. Sun exposure is the most important determinant of serum 25(OH)D status in HD patients.

Effects of sun exposure and dietary vitamin D intake on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D status in hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Vitamin D deficiency is common in hemodialysis patients. The aim of this study was to identify whether or not sun exposure and dietary vitamin D intake have effects on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) status in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The objective was to identify the main determinants of serum vitamin D status in the study subjects. SUBJECTS/METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 47 HD patients (19 males and 28 females) was performed. We assessed serum 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels between August and September 2012 and analyzed the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in HD patients. To evaluate the determinants of serum 25(OH)D levels, we surveyed dietary vitamin D intake, degree of sun exposure, and outdoor activities. To compare biological variables, serum 25(OH)D was stratified as below 15 ng/ml or above 15 ng/ml. RESULTS: Mean 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels were 13.5 +/- 5.8 ng/ml and 20.6 +/- 11.8 pg/ml, respectively. The proportions of serum 25(OH)D deficiency ( or = 30 ng/ml) in subjects were 72.4%, 23.4%, and 4.3%, respectively. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in female patients was 78.6%, whereas that in males was 63.2% (P = 0.046). Vitamin D intake and sun exposure time were not significantly different between the two stratified serum 25(OH)D levels. Dietary intake of vitamin D did not contribute to increased serum 25(OH)D levels in HD patients. The main effective factors affecting serum 25(OH)D status were found to be the sun exposure and active outdoor exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Hypovitaminosis D is common in HD patients and is higher in females than in males. Sun exposure is the most important determinant of serum 25(OH)D status in HD patients.

Two Cases of Lentigo Maligna with Atypical Clinical Presentation / 대한피부과학회지

Lentigo maligna is a variant of melanoma in situ that appears on sun-exposed areas as a macule with variegated pigmentation and irregular borders. If untreated, it has a risk of progressing to lentigo maligna melanoma. Two patients presented with hyperpigmented macules or patches on atypical facial areas. The histological findings were consistent with lentigo maligna. An 80-year-old Korean woman presented with clustered hyperpigmented macules on the lower lip and oral mucosa, and a 45-year-old Caucasian presented with a lesion located on the external auditory meatus, with intermittent sun exposure. Herein, we report two interesting cases of lentigo maligna with atypical clinical presentations.