Knowledge of the Effects of UV Radiation and Blue Light on the Skin, the Proper use of Protective Cosmetics and Usage Patterns in Latvia

Abstract

UV (ultraviolet) radiation is a significant risk factor for the development of skin cancers such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, and can contribute to other skin lesions.
 Objectives: The aim of the study was to find out knowledge on the effects of UV radiation and blue light on the skin, the correct use of protective equipment, and their using habits in the Latvian population. 
 Materials and Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was used, which included 31 questions and 307 participants in the age group from 18 to 60 years, randomly selected were surveyed (243 (79%) - women, 64 (21%) - men).
 Results: Comparing the knowledge about the effects of UV radiation and the blue light on the skin between the age groups, a statistically significant difference was found between the age groups 21-25 and 51-60 (p <0.001), as well as between 26-30 and 51-60 (p <0.001). Analyzing the data, a statistically significant difference was obtained in the gender groups who didn’t sunbathe - men did not sunbathe statistically significantly less than women (p <0.05). Only 21.2% of respondents were using SPF protective creams daily. 8.1% of respondents believe that the effects of tanning on the skin are negative.
 Conclusion: The level of knowledge on UV radiation, blue light and proper use of protectives are influenced by age, gender and occupation in Latvian population.