KNOWLEDGE ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ABOUT SUN-PROTECTION AND SUNSCREEN USAGE AMONG NURSING STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: Photoprotection refers to safeguarding against UV rays as well as secondary variables like oxidative stress with the use of antioxidants, etc. Additionally, the harm done by UV radiations is one of the factors contributing to the public's rising rate of skin illnesses. Sunscreens are employed as photoprotective measures to guard against these dangerous UV rays. The effectiveness of it is signicantly inuenced by the sun protection factor. It is crucial that individuals are aware of the importance of wearing sunscreen, and numerous research have been done to examine this issue. To assess knowledge, attitude and practice towards sun protection and Objectives: sunscreen usage among nursing students. A cross-sectional, descriptive study using a specially designed Materials and Methods: questionnaire was conducted among nursing students in a tertiary care center. The questionnaire was completed and r Results: eturned by 200 females in the age range of 15-25 years. Only 88 out of 200 females were using sunscreens. Majority of the patients, 136(68%) belonged to rural background. Assessment of the sun exposure revealed that 130(65%)respondents reported daily sun exposure whereas 70 (35%) had occasional sun exposure. Assessment of the knowledge revealed that all of them 200 (100%) are aware of the adverse effects of excessive sun exposure but only 56(28%) were aware of the carcinogenic effect of sunlight.62 (31%) respondents reported that they use sunscreen on a daily basis.53 (26.5%) patient mentioned sunscreens are expensive and is the reason for not using them. Media was the most common source of information. 26 (13%) of them think sunscreens are harmful to the skin. 64 (32%) of them agree that wearing sunscreen can cause vitamin D deciency. Conclusion: This study shows that proper method of use of sunscreens is low among young females and suggests need of proper training about sunscreen and their usage and also need for general public health education program.