Lack of knowledge regarding sun exposure and vitamin D associated with suboptimal sun protection practices
February 23, 2023
Abstract
Sun exposure carries both harms and benefits. Exposing the skin to the sun is the main modifiable cause of skin cancers, which exert a considerable health and economic burden in Australia. The most well-established benefit of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is vitamin D production. Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world but, despite the high ambient UV radiation, approximately one quarter of the population is estimated to be vitamin D deficient. Balancing the risks and benefits is challenging and requires effective communication. We sought to provide a snapshot of public knowledge and attitudes regarding sun exposure and vitamin D and to examine the associations between these factors and sun protective behaviors. In 2020 we administered an online survey; 4824 participants with self-reported fair or medium skin color were included in this analysis. Only 25% and 34% of participants were able to identify the amount of time outdoors needed to maintain adequate vitamin D status in summer and winter, respectively and 25% were concerned that sunscreen use inhibits vitamin D synthesis. This lack of knowledge was associated with suboptimal sun protection practices. Public education is warranted to prevent over-exposure, while supporting natural vitamin D production.
Source:
Tran, V.; Janda, M.; Lucas, R.M.; McLeod, D.S.A.; Thompson, B.S.; Waterhouse, M.; Whiteman, D.C.; Neale, R.E. Vitamin D and Sun Exposure: A Community Survey in Australia. Curr. Oncol. 2023, 30, 2465-2481. https://doi.org/10.3390/curron...