Sun exposure behaviours as a compromise to paradoxical injunctions: Insight from a worldwide survey

Abstract

BackgroundBehavioural interventions can improve attitudes towards sun protection but the impact remains inconsistent worldwide.ObjectiveTo assess awareness of and attitudes towards the multiple facets of sun exposure and suggest ways to improve prevention from overexposure to the sun in all geographical zones and multiple skin types.MethodsOnline survey was conducted from 28 September to 18 October 2021. Study population was selected from the Ipsos online Panel (3,540,000 panellists), aged ≥18 years, from 17 countries around the five continents. Demographics, sun‐exposure habits and practices, understanding of risks and information on phototypes were documented and analysed using descriptive statistics.ResultsEighty‐eight per cent of participants knew that sunlight can cause skin health problems (90% phototypes I‐II, 82% phototypes V‐VI, >90% in American and European countries, 72% in Asia and 85% in Africa). Eighty‐five per cent used some form of protection against sunlight, predominantly: Seeking shade (77%), avoiding the midday sun (66%), facial application of sunscreen (60%) and wearing protective clothing (44%). The perception of sunlight itself is positive (‘it gives energy’ for 82%; ‘tanned skin looks attractive’ for 72%), although less in Asian countries and among individuals with dark skin phototypes. Eighty‐three per cent reported having experienced sunburn, mainly in Australia, Canada, USA, Germany, France and Russia, and among individuals with dark skin phototypes. Only 12% systematically/often used all types of protection during exposure to the sun and 23% believed it is safe to go out in the sun with no protection when their skin is already tanned. From 13% (skin phototype I) to 26% (phototype VI) reported not using any form of protection against the sun. Knowledge and habits were significantly superior among people who are accustomed to seeing a dermatologist for a complete skin exam.ConclusionsDermatologists could play a crucial role in relaying novel prevention messages, more finely tailored to specific risks, populations and areas of the world.

Awareness of sun exposure risks and photoprotection for preventing pigmentary disorders in Asian populations: Survey results from three Asian countries and expert panel recommendations

“…An online survey was conducted by Ipsos Access Panel from September 2021 to October 2021 and was carried out according to the ICC/ESOMAR code of conduct 15 . A quota method was applied to gender, age, occupation, region, and market size to investigate awareness of and attitudes toward the multiple facets of sun exposure and associated risks.…”

“…A quota method was applied to gender, age, occupation, region, and market size to investigate awareness of and attitudes toward the multiple facets of sun exposure and associated risks. The global survey was completed by 17,001 men and women, aged 18 years and older, across 17 countries spanning five continents 15 . Demographics, sun‐exposure habits, practices, risks, and phototypes were analyzed using descriptive statistics; including frequency tables, means, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals.…”

“…Demographics, sun‐exposure habits, practices, risks, and phototypes were analyzed using descriptive statistics; including frequency tables, means, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals. Two‐sided chi‐square tests with a 0.05 significance level were used to compare subgroups 15 …”