Photoprotection Practices Research Articles

Solar ultraviolet radiation exposure of trail runners in an ultraendurance competition at high altitude

BackgroundOutdoor sports are associated with overexposure to solar ultraviolet radiation and sunburn. AimsTo quantify solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure received by trail runners during an ultraendurance competition at high altitude and to assess their sun exposure habits, sun protection behaviors, and attitudes and knowledge regarding skin cancer. MethodsTrail runners taking part in the 2023 Ultra Sierra Nevada race (Spain, April 14–16, 2023) completed an online validated questionnaire on sun-related habits, behaviors, attitudes, and knowledge. Environmental conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, and UVR as well as participants’ personal erythemal dose were measured during the competition. ResultsThe average ambient cumulative erythemal dose ranged from 59.9 to 19.3 standard erythemal doses (SED) and the mean effective radiation received by the athletes studied (n = 17) ranged from 24.2 to 7.6 SED in the Extreme (154 km) to Half-Marathon (25.1 km) races. The questionnaire was completed by 194 athletes (mean age 41.3 ± 8.9 years; 76.8 % men). A total of 22.4 % of athletes surveyed reported skin phototype I-II. Two-thirds (66.5 %) had sunburn after doing outdoor sports in the previous year. In regard to photoprotection practices while exercising outdoors, 62.6 % reported wearing a hat/cap, 59.2 % avoided the midday sun, 38.7 % used sunscreen with sun protection factor ≥ 15, and 49.7 % stated they did not reapply sunscreen. ConclusionsThe trail runners studied received a high solar exposure dose during the competition. Future interventions are needed to improve individual and organizational photoprotection measures in trail-running events to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Abstract B056: Empowering underserved communities: The impact of the Sun Bus and Texas Tech on skin cancer awareness and prevention in “Sun City”

Abstract Purpose: Ultraviolet radiation is the primary cause of skin cancer.1,2 Other risk factors include fair skin, moles, family history, and history of sunburns.1,3 Photoprotective practices and regular skin examinations can help prevent skin cancer associated with ultraviolet radiation,5-8 underlining the importance of prevention and early detection. However, dermatological health disparities, such as limited access to dermatologists and inadequate awareness of sun protection practices, present significant challenges to effective prevention and early detection efforts. Recognizing and addressing these barriers is crucial, particularly amongst minoritized groups, who carry a higher burden of skin cancer morbidity and mortality.9 The Sun Bus, affiliated with the Colorado Melanoma Foundation, travels across the United States providing free skin cancer screenings and prevention education to reduce the incidence of skin cancer.1 In collaboration with the Sun Bus, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine and Myth Busters at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso organized a bilingual skin cancer education and screening community event in El Paso, Texas. The main objectives were to debunk skin cancer myths prevalent in underserved communities and to strengthen prevention initiatives. Methods: Participants were administered optional surveys assessing their skin cancer knowledge and prevention behaviors before and after attending the session. Demographic data was collected, and pre-event and post-event knowledge were quantified using unpaired T-tests. Results: The event was attended by over 100 people. Over 80% of the event attendees were Hispanic. Among them, approximately one-third had only graduated high school, another third had completed college, and one-quarter held advanced degrees. The ages of participants ranged from 18 to over 75. Notably, 22% of respondents were uninsured. All survey respondents reported learning something new from the event. The performance from the pre-test to the post-test improved significantly by 7.04% (p=0.017). Additionally, attendees reported better knowledge about where to apply sunscreen and the importance of wearing sun-protective clothing. Conclusion: The Sun Bus Community Initiative proved to be an effective method for participants to learn about sun protection, skin cancer prevention and screening. This initiative could serve as a model to implement in other underserved communities to improve skin cancer awareness and prevention. Citation Format: Daniel Lovasz, Brian Kan, Hannah Riva, Shravya Kichena, Fabiola Ramirez, Whitney Shaffer, Julia Guido, Mariana Arajuo-Rincon, Jessica Chacon. Empowering underserved communities: The impact of the Sun Bus and Texas Tech on skin cancer awareness and prevention in “Sun City” [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B056.

51181 Photoprotective Practices Among Patients of Color with Acquired Hyperpigmentation

51181 Photoprotective Practices Among Patients of Color with Acquired Hyperpigmentation

Are people more concerned about photoaging than skin cancer when raising awareness about risks of skin exposure?

This study conducted a comprehensive online survey across 17 countries to assess the influence of fear of skin cancer versus fear of photoaging on photoprotection practices. Revealing significant differences in sun protection behaviors, the research found that individuals concerned about photoaging are more likely to adopt comprehensive sun protection measures compared to those fearful of skin cancer. The findings highlight the potential for integrating concerns about photoaging into skin cancer awareness campaigns to enhance public health strategies for sun protection.

Photoprotection and dermatological profile of persons with albinism in Plateau state, Nigeria: findings from a collaborative awareness and screening outreach program

Introduction As a result of genetically being deficient of melanin, albinos are particularly susceptible to skin damage from ultraviolet rays leading to photodermatoses such as sunburns, dermatoheliosis, and cutaneous cancers. These negatively affects quality of life and cause premature death. Little is known of the photoprotective measures available to and dermatological profile of persons with albinism in Plateau state, North Central Nigeria. Objective To describe the dermatological profile of albinos in Plateau state, Nigeria, photo exposure levels, photoprotection strategies, and factors associated with presence of photodermatoses. Patients and methods Consenting individuals with albinism attending the sensitization event hosted by the Centre for Albinism Right and Empowerment Network were recruited. Demographic information, occupational history, solar exposure, photoprotective practices, and perceived sun exposure were all documented using semistructured questionnaires. Physical and dermatological examination, dermoscopy, and laboratory investigations were used to make diagnosis. Statistical package for social sciences, version 26, was used to carry out univariate and bivariate analysis. Results While a wide spectrum of skin diseases was observed among the 59 albinos that participated. Photodermatoses were three times more than nonphotodermatoses. The commonest photodermatoses were solar elastosis (55.9%), solar lentigines (44.1%), actinic keratosis (27.1%), and sunburn (25.4%). Skin cancers affected 10.2% of all patients and 16.6% of persons more than or equal to 20 years. Generally, the presence of photodermatoses was associated with age and occupation while actinic keratotic changes specifically was associated with living in rural areas (P=0.035). Despite this, only seven (11.9%) owned sunscreen at the time of study with more than a third (35.2%) being ignorant of existence of sunscreen lotions. Conclusion Continuous multifaceted programs that involve tracking, education, prevention, early detection, and treatment of photodermatoses will be planned to be targeted towards persons with albinism living in Plateau state.

Accuracy and adequacy of photoprotection in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus patients, and the effect of education on photoprotection: a prospective study

BackgroundSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease that is associated with multiple organ involvement and leads to significant morbidity and mortality. One of the important environmental factors that influences the exacerbation of preexisting SLE is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, so photoprotection is essential. The aims of this study were to evaluate the accuracy and adequacy of photoprotection in pediatric SLE patients, and to investigate the effect of education on photoprotection.MethodsSLE patients aged ≤ 18 years who attended pediatric outpatient clinics were prospectively enrolled. The accuracy and adequacy of photoprotection were assessed by the questionnaire, and compared between baseline and the ≥ 3-month follow-up timepoint. Comprehensive written and verbal photoprotection education was provided to all patients and parents/caregivers after the first assessment.ResultsOne hundred patients were included (mean age 13.6 ± 2.5, 92% female). At the first assessment, 79% of patients used sunscreen with a sunburn protection factor ≥ 30 (77%) and protection grade of ultraviolet A + + + (63%). Fifty-two percent of patients applied sunscreen every day. A minority of patients applied an adequate amount of sunscreen (32%), used water-resistant sunscreen (34%), used lip balm with sunscreen (23%) and reapplied sunscreen when sweating (13%). The most commonly missed areas when applying sunscreen were the ears and dorsum of the feet. The least often practiced sun protection behavior was wearing sunglasses. The most often reported activities during the peak UV index, were playing with friends and walking to the cafeterias. At the second assessment, the majority of photoprotection practices were improved in all aspects except using water-resistant sunscreen, reapplying sunscreen when sweating, applying sunscreen on the ears and dorsum of feet, and wearing sunglasses. The main reason for not using sunscreen switched from thinking it was unnecessary at the first assessment to disliking its texture at the second assessment.ConclusionsEducation on photoprotection was effective in improving photoprotection practices. The photoprotection practices that need to be specifically emphasized are applying an adequate amount of sunscreen and using lip balm with sunscreen. The photoprotection which were least practiced at both the first and seconds assessments were reapplying sunscreen when sweating, applying sunscreen on the ears and dorsum of the feet, and wearing sunglasses.

Dermatologists Should Encourage and Resume Photoprotection in Patients with Photodermatoses and Melasma Following the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic may alter individuals' perspectives and behaviors regarding sun exposure and photoprotection. Presently, there is a paucity of information about how the pandemic influences photoprotection in photodermatoses and melasma. To compare the photoprotection attitudes and behaviors of individuals with photodermatoses and melasma with those of a control group (other dermatologic patients) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among Thai patients with photodermatoses, melasma, and other dermatological conditions between August 2021 and November 2022. Each of the three groups consisted of 35 patients. Among the 105 patients, 81.9% were female, and the mean age was 45.83 years. Over 80% of individuals who used surgical masks daily for 4 to 8 hours believed that these masks provided skin protection from the sun. The duration of sun exposure and the frequency of photoprotection practices decreased significantly in all groups during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. Sunscreen was the most prevalent form of photoprotection, but its usage declined considerably during the pandemic. Upon physical examination, the photodermatoses and control groups exhibited unchanged skin conditions, while the patients with melasma demonstrated improved skin conditions during the pandemic. Owing to increased indoor activities and the perception that face masks could block sunlight, the COVID-19 pandemic led to notable reductions in sun exposure and photoprotective practices. Despite the absence of photodermatoses exacerbation and the observed improvements in patients with melasma, consistent and effective photoprotection must continue to be promoted.

PD08 Sun protection practices of men in the west of Ireland

Abstract Irish men get more skin cancer than women, especially of the head and neck area. They typically get more sun exposure and are less likely to wear sun protection factor (SPF). Little is known about the types of hats men wear, or photoprotective practices regarding the lips. We carried out an observational study, using a questionnaire, on men aged > 18 years attending dermatology for any reason. Fitzpatrick skin type and Norwood classification for male pattern baldness was documented. Sixty-one men [mean (SD) age 56 (16.9) years] were involved. Forty-nine per cent were attending for the assessment of skin lesions. Thirty-eight per cent were on immunosuppression. Sixty-four per cent worked outdoors currently or in the past, 79% have or had spent > 3 h outdoors daily. Twenty-six per cent had a Norwood classification of ≥ 3v (vertex of scalp showing). The majority (71%) was of Fitzpatrick skin types I and II. Seventy-nine per cent wore SPF, 19% daily and 17% during the summer. Only 15% of men reported wearing lip SPF. Sixty-eight per cent reported wearing a hat on a ‘sunny day’. Of these, 54% wear baseball (BB) caps, 20% wear a wide-brimmed hat (WBH), 20% a narrow-brimmed hat, 4% a wool or traditional cap and 2% a total face covering. Age did not influence whether a hat was worn, but it did influence the type, with younger men more likely to wear BB caps and older men more likely to wear WBH. Those with hair thinning were more likely to wear a hat (87% vs. 67%). Non-hat-wearers were also less likely to wear SPF. Despite the incidence of skin cancer in sun-exposed sites in men, few studies have focused on photoprotective practices of the head and neck. Our study demonstrates that while Irish men wear SPF, few wear SPF on their lips. Additionally, Irish men often wear a hat type that would not be considered to provide adequate photoprotection to the head and neck. Hat type varied with age, with younger patients wearing less photoprotective hats. When considering photoprotection campaigns, factors such as age, fashion trends and education regarding lip SPF should be considered.

Occupational Sun Exposure Among Physical Education Teachers in Primary and Secondary Schools in Andalusia, Spain.

Chronic sun exposure and sunburns are the main preventable causes of skin cancer. Due to the nature of their work, physical education teachers are at high risk for occupational skin cancer. This descriptive, cross-sectional study analyzes primary and secondary physical education teachers in Andalusia, Spain. All participants were invited to monitor their ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure using individual biologic dosimeters and record their photoprotection practices over 3 workdays. The teachers spent an average of 2.7h outdoors and the mean personal UV radiation exposure was 309.9J/m2 per day, a value three times higher than international recommendations. Based on the photoprotection diary, it was determined that classes held outdoors were not scheduled outside the hours with the highest UV index and that the percentage of participants who followed the photoprotective practices of remaining in the shade or wearing a hat during outdoor lessons were less than 20% and 60%, respectively. The results on sun exposure and photoprotection practices show a need for organizational and educational intervention strategies to mitigate sun exposure and increase compliance with photoprotection measures to reduce skin cancer risk among these workers and promote early diagnosis of the disease.

Community Educational Interventions: An Effective Means to Improve Photoprotection and Skin Cancer Awareness in Outdoor Occupational Workers

Introduction: Outdoor workers are at increased risk for developing skin cancer compared to the general population due to environmental conditions at work sites and riskier behavior regarding skin cancer risk factors. In many populations, sun protection education is associated with increased use of sun protective measures. This study aimed to assess outdoor workers’ knowledge of sun safety and evaluate the impact of educational measures on the awareness of photoprotection practices.
 Methods: A group of medical students visited construction sites in Birmingham, AL, to deliver 15-minute presentations on the risks of prolonged UV exposure and the prevention of photodamage. Identical 10-question surveys were given to each participant before and after the presentation. Participants rated their level of agreement with statements on photoprotection and skin cancer.
 Results: The survey response rate was 79%. Analysis revealed an average pre-presentation score of 3.01 and a post-presentation score of 3.73. Two-sample paired t-tests for each question yielded statistically significant results (p <0.05). 
 Conclusion: Outdoor occupational workers reported a better understanding of the risks of UV exposure and a greater willingness to engage in sun-protective practices following a brief educational intervention. These findings suggest that community-based education may improve awareness regarding photoprotection and skin cancer risk.

Risk assessment of occupational skin cancer among outdoor workers in southern Spain: local pilot study

ObjectiveOverexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main preventable cause of skin cancer. Outdoor workers, exposed to the sun for many hours throughout their working lives, are at special risk....

Evaluation of the educational intervention "living with the sun" by preschool and first-year primary school students: a pilot study

"Convive con el Sol" (Living with the sun) is an educational programme to promote education about sun exposure and healthy photoprotection habits among Spanish children. This study evaluated the effects of the "Convive con el Sol" school-based sun protection programme on the sun safety habits, attitudes, knowledge, and practices in preschool and first-year primary school students. A quasi-experimental pilot study was established with a pre-test/post-test design and without a control group to evaluate the efficacy of the "Convive con el Sol" programme in children aged 3-8 years. Two questionnaires were used to evaluate the programme: the CHRESI questionnaire and the SolSano questionnaire. Results: Seven educational centres participated in the study. The number of completed baseline questionnaires was 351 for the CHRESI survey and 226 for the SolSano survey. After the intervention, the students improved their sun protection practices; fewer students went to the beach or swimming-pool at noon (9.8% vs 5.5%; p = 0.03), and more schoolchildren used cream with an SPF rating >15 (37.6% vs 76.2%; p <0.01) and repeatedly applied sunscreen if continuously exposed (67.4% vs 82.7%; p <0.01). Our findings show that the "Convive con el Sol" educational intervention improved photoprotection practices in children aged 3-8 years, but did not reduce the percentage of sunburned children. This pilot study serves as a starting point for designing educational interventions, targeting students, teachers, and families.

Ultraviolet exposure of competitors during a Tokyo Olympic Sailing Regatta Test Event.

Overexposure to sunlight is the main cause of skin cancer. Photoprotection practices and sunburn play a crucial role in skin cancer prevention. This study aimed to quantify the risk of sun exposure and to evaluate photoprotection practices in Spanish sailors during Olympic competitions. Solar daily ultraviolet (UV) radiation cycle, personal UV dosimetry, photoprotection practices and sunburn checking were followed during three consecutive days of competition among sailors from the Spanish Olympic Sailing Team during a Tokyo Olympic Regatta Test Event. A total of 13 sailors (7 women), with mean age of 27.6 ± 4.7 years and sports experience of 17.7 ± 5.4 years, were studied. The most common phototypes were type III (53.8%) and type II (38.5%). The rate of sunburn checked was high (46.2%). The mean daily personal UV exposure received was 761.0 ± 263.6J/m2 , 3.0 ± 1.1 minimal erythemal dose and 7.6 ± 2.6 standard erythemal dose, seven times greater than the maximum permissible UV light exposure values for an 8 h working day. The use of a T-shirt was the most common practice (94.2%), followed by the use of shade (50.2%), hat/cap (44.0%), sunglasses (26.1%) and sunscreen (11.8%). Olympic sailor's studies presented high levels of UV radiation received, high rate of sunburn and insufficient adherence to sun-protective behaviours (especially, to use of sunscreen) to prevent sunburn, the main cause of skin cancer. Sport Federations should develop educational campaigns addressing sun-related exposure habits and photoprotection behaviours to reduce the risk of skin cancer among these athletes.

Awareness, knowledge, and attitudes towards sun protection among patients with melanoma and atypical mole syndrome.

BACKGROUNDPatients with atypical mole syndrome (AMS) have a 3- to 20-fold higher risk of developing malignant melanoma (MM) than individuals without. The most modifiable risk factor for developing MM is the ongoing ultraviolet exposure.AIMTo assess awareness, knowledge, and attitudes towards sun protection among patients with MM and AMS.METHODSFrom January 2020 till December 2021, a written survey was administered to patients with MM and AMS and a control group who attended a specialist mole clinic at the Dermatology Department of the University Hospital of Heraklion in Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Demographic data and photoprotective practices, knowledge, and perceived barriers were collected. Relevant statistical analyses were performed using SPSS IBM 25.RESULTSIn total, 121 subjects consented and participated in the survey. Their mean age was 43.92 ± 12.55 years. There were 66 (54.4%) females and 55 (45.4%) males. Forty-seven (38.8%) patients had AMS, 26 (21.5%) had a past medical history of MM, and 48 (39.7%) attended the clinic for a full skin checkup for their naevi without having AMS or MM. Although 104 (86%) participants reported using sunscreen with the majority of them (59/121 = 48.8%) wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor of > 50, only 22 (18.2%) patients did so every day and only 20 (16.5%) all year round. Approximately 74.4% of patients recalled having received advice on how to protect their skin from sunlight, and 73% were interested in receiving education about sun protection. The most mentioned barriers in photoprotection were concerns over adequate vitamin D and lack of time. CONCLUSIONDespite mentioning having received adequate education in photoprotection, adherence to photoprotection practices is suboptimal in patients with MM and AMS.

British Association of Dermatologists guidelines for the management of people with cutaneous lupus erythematosus 2021.

The overall objective of the guideline is to provide up-to-date, evidence-based recommendations for the management of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) in the presence or absence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in adults, young people and children. The document aims to: offer an appraisal of all relevant literature up to December 2020, focusing on any key developments address important, practical clinical questions relating to the primary guideline objective. provide guideline recommendations and if appropriate research recommendations.

Photoprotection habits, attitudes and knowledge among school communities in the Costa del sol (Spain).

Scholar photoprotection campaigns are among the most effective strategies for preventing skin cancer. Analysis of the target population constitutes a valuable starting point for the implementation of primary prevention strategies. Our aim is to study photoprotection habits, attitudes and knowledge among a Spanish school community. Descriptive cross-sectional study targeting schoolchildren, parents and teachers at 20 schools in the area of the Costa del Sol Health Agency in southern Spain. Two population-specific, validated questionnaires were used: the CHRESI (for children aged 0-10 years) and CHACES Questionnaire(for adults and adolescents aged > 11 years). We collected demographic data, skin colour, skin phototype, sunburn episodes, sun exposure and photoprotection practices, attitudes and knowledge. 1728 questionnaires were analyzed (22% parents, 14.5% teachers, 44.8% adolescents and 18.6% children). The average ages were 8 years (children), 16 years (adolescents), 39 years (teachers) and 42 years (parents). Globally, the predominant features were: male sex (52%), Spanish nationality (92%) and phototypes II-III (61%). Children, followed by adolescents, reported the highest exposure to the sun, both in frequency and in duration. Adolescents had the higher rate of sunburn (75%), followed by parents/teachers (54.1%) and children (44.1%). Children and their parents were the most likely to adopt photoprotection measures, while adolescents presented more risky attitudes. Knowledge regarding photoprotection was acceptable (6.9/10). This study highlights the need to improve photoprotection knowledge, habits and attitudes among our target population. Scholars, parents and teachers in our area should be addressed in campaigns to promote healthy sun exposure habits, thus reducing skin cancer-related morbidity and mortality in this region.

Sun Exposure during Water Sports: Do Elite Athletes Adequately Protect Their Skin against Skin Cancer?

Excessive sun exposure is the main avoidable cause of skin cancer. Outdoor sports performed without adequate photoprotection are risky practices in this respect. This study examines whether elite athletes in water sports (specifically surfing, windsurfing, and sailing) take appropriate measures to protect their skin from the sun, and whether there are differences in this respect according to age, gender, or sports discipline. This study is based on a questionnaire-based health survey. World championship competitors completed a self-administered questionnaire on their sun protection and exposure habits, as well as sunburns during the last sports season. In total, 246 participants, with an age range of 16–30 years, completed the questionnaire. Of these, 49.6% used inadequate sun protection. Those who protected their skin appropriately tended to be older than those who did not (average age = 23.28 and 20.69 years, respectively; p = 0.000). There were no significant differences in sun protection habits between male and female athletes. The rate of sunburn was very high (76.7%). A high proportion (22.5%) of participants never used sunscreen. Elite athletes in water sports are at real risk of skin lesions from overexposure to the sun, associated with inadequate photoprotection practices. Campaigns to raise awareness and to promote the early detection of skin cancer should target these risk groups.

Sun Protection Policies and Practices in Preschool and Elementary Schools in Andalusia (Spain).

Sun exposure in childhood is a major risk factor for the development of skin cancer as an adult. School children spend much of their time outdoors exposed to ultraviolet radiation during recreational and sports activities. Skin cancer incidence tripled from 1978 to 2002 in Spain. Andalusia, the largest and sunniest region of Spain, lacks data on the sun protection measures taken in schools. To address this deficit, the aim of this study was to determine photoprotection practices and policies in preschools and primary schools in Andalusia. This descriptive study involved the administration of an online questionnaire completed by principals regarding school sun protection policies and practices. Preschool and primary schools were selected from the database of the Ministry of Education of the Andalusian Regional Government. Information of interest included photoprotection policies, students' sun protection knowledge, sun protection measures, relevant curricular content, and availability of shade at the school. A total of 2425 schools were contacted. Of them, 420 schools responded (17.31%), with the highest number of responses received from Malaga (23.8%) and Seville (19.5%) provinces. Of those responding, 67.1% of the schools did not have written sun protection policies. The photoprotection measures reported included mandatory use of a cap or hat (3.3%), use of sunglasses in outdoor areas (30%), and active encouragement of students to use sunscreen (50.7%). Roughly 24% of schools evaluated their shaded areas, with 52.9% reporting insufficient protection for most activities. The study results showed that photoprotection policies and practices in Andalusian schools were mostly insufficient. Given that skin cancer incidence has increased considerably over the last decade, it is important to concentrate on improving primary prevention practices. Additionally, photoprotection programs in schools have been shown to improve children's knowledge, attitudes, and habits regarding photoprotection. Thus, it is essential for Andalusian preschools and primary schools to develop policies and strategies to help reduce children's sun exposure while at school.

'More extraordinary than mundane … ' A phenomenological analysis of the experiences of individuals living with CLE and their taking care in the sun.

IntroductionCLE is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune condition of which photosensitivity is a major symptom. Individuals living with CLE are advised to practice photoprotection. Despite the benefits for disease control, many individuals living with CLE do not practice optimal photoprotection. The aim of this study was to gain a deep insight into the lived experiences of individuals with CLE and their photoprotective practices.MethodsA qualitative study approach was conducted, using Hermeneutic phenomenology. Individuals living with CLE were recruited and interviewed. Rich pictures were used to enrich the interviews. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using Template Analysis.ResultsAnalysis revealed four themes: ‘Much more than just a photosensitive skin condition’, ‘The impact of sun on CLE and social dynamics’, ‘Drifting to the sun: personal transitions and social norms’ and ‘Taking care in the sun: easier said than done’.Discussion and conclusionThis study provides a nuanced insight into the lived experiences of individuals with CLE and their photoprotective practices. Taking care in the sun is not a simplistic process. Beyond the biomedical model of illness, the social impact that CLE has on individuals has a dominant influence on their photoprotective behaviours. Such insights could help healthcare professionals tailor photoprotective advice.

Knowledge and Practice Regarding Hazards of Ultraviolet Radiation amongst Medical Students of Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Ultraviolet radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation whose origin is sun and man-made sources. Unprotected exposure to UV radiation has been attributed to causing diseases such as skin cancer, hence proper protection is necessary when coming in contact with a UV radiation source. Objectives: To establish the knowledge and practices regarding the hazards of UV radiation exposure amongst undergraduate medical students. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the knowledge and practice regarding the hazards of UV radiation amongst medical students. Questionnaire was filled with a 100% response rate. Final data were analyzed with the help of SPSS version 21.0 and the descriptive statistics e.g. percentage and frequencies were calculated. Results: Of the 200 participants, 69% were females and 31% were males. Regarding the effects of sun, level of knowledge averaged at 8.39 ± 1.71 out of 12 points. Of the participants, 27.5% had good general knowledge about the hazards of UV exposure and photoprotective practices, 69.5% had fair knowledge while 3% had poor knowledge on the subject matter. Umbrella was a popular choice for photoprotection amongst females with 57.2% reporting of its use while in male hat usage was the popular choice as reported by 14.5% of them. 35.5% of the participants reported never having received formal education about the hazards of UV radiation. Conclusion: In Pakistan, medical students demonstrated good knowledge regarding the hazards of ultraviolet radiation but there was low usage of active sun-safe practices such as sunscreen which demonstrates that there is a gap between knowledge and practice.