Vitamin D knowledge and sun exposure practices among Sri Lankan healthcare undergraduates

Abstract

Introduction Although overexposure to ultraviolet radiation may lead to skin cancer, inadequate exposure results in vitamin D deficiency (VDD). We explored vitamin D-related knowledge and sun exposure practices among Sri Lankan healthcare undergraduates. Methods The sampling frame consisted of medical and allied health undergraduates in a single centre. A newly developed, pre-piloted, self-administered questionnaire collected data on vitamin D knowledge, sun avoidance behaviour and outdoor time. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis examined the factors related to outdoor time. Results A total of 482 were included in the analysis. The mean (SD) vitamin D knowledge score (0–100% scale) was 31.3% (18%). Only 17.8% scored ≥50% for knowledge. At least one sun avoidance measure was used by 59.3% of the undergraduates. A lower knowledge score was observed with a higher number of sun-avoidance behaviour (mean difference 0.84, p = 0.03). The majority (66%) spent outdoors <30 minutes per day between 9 am-3 pm. The odds of having low outdoor time were 1.6 higher for the female sex (OR:1.61, 95%CI:1.039, 2.492, p<0.001) and studying in the final year (OR:1.63, 95%CI:1.020, 2.602, p = 0.04). Medical students had a higher likelihood of low outdoor time (OR:0.55, 95%CI: 0.361, 0.835, p = 0.005). Conclusions The healthcare undergraduates had low vitamin D knowledge and outdoor time while having increased sun avoidance. Gender, course of study, and academic year appeared to affect outdoor time. Support and guidance should improve knowledge and sun exposure habits that suit academic work and lifestyle in this population. Also, universities can actively promote positive sun exposure by organizing outdoor events.

Body mass index and healthy lifestyle practices among Peruvian university students: a comparative study among academic discipline

“…For example, a study found that many university students in the United Arab Emirates did not receive sufficient sunlight, which could pose a public health problem due to a potential vitamin D deficiency ( 32 ). Additionally, a similar study found low sun exposure practices among Sri Lankan university students in healthcare studies ( 30 ), aligning with our findings. Moreover, other studies have highlighted how modern urban lifestyles, common among university students, limit sunlight exposure ( 31 ).…”

“…This is exacerbated by technology and preference for indoor activities, which further reduces opportunities for exposure to natural sunlight ( 62 , 63 ). On the other hand, a lack of knowledge about vitamin D, long hours spent in academic facilities, and sedentary study habits are some of the reasons for low sunlight exposure ( 30 , 32 ); this is particularly relevant for Health Sciences and Engineering/Architecture students, whose rigorous academic programs often involve a greater amount of time spent indoors. The low sunlight exposure in these groups of university students suggests the need to encourage outdoor activities.…”

“…Furthermore, adequate sunlight exposure as a healthy lifestyle factor is essential for an individual’s health and well-being ( 29 ). University students, particularly those in the field of Health Sciences field, have reported lower levels of sunlight exposure ( 30 ). Study in Sri Lanka revealed limited sunlight exposure among university health care students ( 30 ).…”

“…University students, particularly those in the field of Health Sciences field, have reported lower levels of sunlight exposure ( 30 ). Study in Sri Lanka revealed limited sunlight exposure among university health care students ( 30 ). In addition, the influence of modern urban lifestyles, prevalent in this population, has been identified as one of the causes of reduced sunlight exposure ( 31 ).…”

“…In addition, the influence of modern urban lifestyles, prevalent in this population, has been identified as one of the causes of reduced sunlight exposure ( 31 ). Factors such as poor knowledge about the importance of vitamin D, spending long hours in academic facilities such as laboratories, and predominantly sedentary study habits contribute to this low sunlight exposure in students ( 30 , 32 ). However, it is important to maintain a balance between the benefits of sunlight exposure and the risk of skin damage, including skin cancer ( 33 ).…”