BackgroundThe greatest sun exposure occurs until adolescence and this is the only
factor involved in photocarcinogenesis subject to modification with
photoprotection.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate the habits and knowledge of
adolescents regarding photoprotection.MethodCross-sectional study that included 512 students from primary and high
school. Data were collected by questionnaires with questions about habits
and knowledge on sun protection. For data analysis, Pearson's Chi-square
test and Yates test were applied, with 5% level of significance.ResultsWe evaluated 512 students, with a mean age of 14 years old. The teenagers
agreed that ultraviolet rays cause skin cancer and aging (96% and 70%,
respectively). Knowledge about the occurrence of burns even on cloudy days
was recorded in 68% of cases, as well as the need for photoprotection for
sports in 72%. The source of information about sun protection were by
parents in 55%. In 70% was observed previous occurrence of sunburn, the
daily use of sunscreens was found in 15% and 67% used only at the beach. of
sunscreens with SPF higher than 30 was reported by 70% of students and 57%
reported going to the beach between 10h and 16h. In 68% of cases it was
registered insufficient sun protection, attributed, in 57% of the time to
forgetfulness.Study limitationsThe sample refers to two schools of Curitiba (PR), Brazil.ConclusionTeenagers know the risks of sun exposure, but they do not adopt the practices
for adequate protection.