Knowledge, attitude and practice towards sunscreen use among undergraduate medical students in a tertiary care teaching hospital in south India: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: This study was done to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of medical undergraduate students toward the usage of sunscreen as protective measures against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among the undergraduate medical students in a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India. A pre-designed and validated questionnaire containing 13 questions was used to assess knowledge, attitude and practice. The filled KAP questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 100 medical students participated in our study. The mean age of respondents was 19.9±0.73 years. Half of the study participants (50%) were aware of the association between long term sun exposure and skin cancer. Only 17.5% of students were aware of the correct quantity of sunscreen to be used for effective sun protection.65% of respondents did not apply the sunscreen product 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Only 40% of students could name at least 1 ingredient in sunscreen. Reapplication rates were 39.1% among respondents. Conclusions: This study indicated that the awareness and level of knowledge of sunscreen use is not adequate among the medical personnel, thus requiring health education programs to emphasize the importance of regular and correct sunscreen use. It is imperative that the medical students are adequately informed regarding sunscreen benefits and skin cancer prevention as they form the future healthcare system.