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Photochemistry and Photobiology 2005To assist standardization of procedures, facilitate comparisons, and help guide research efforts to optimally inform development of appropriately targeted interventions,... (Review)
Review
To assist standardization of procedures, facilitate comparisons, and help guide research efforts to optimally inform development of appropriately targeted interventions, there is a need to review methods used to quantify child and adolescent solar ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure, related outdoor activities and sun-protective practices. This holistic approach is essential for comprehensive research that will provide all-inclusive, informative and meaningful messages for preventive measures of harmful UV exposure. Two databases were searched and 29 studies were retrieved, and these studies report measurement or assessment techniques documenting UV exposure patterns and related outdoor activities. Polysulfone film badges were the main measurement instrument used in 10 studies, with questionnaire, survey data, observation, a model, electronic dosimeters, biological dosimeters, colorimeter and UV colouring labels used in the remaining studies. Methods used to record activities included self-report, parental report, a logbook and observation. Measurement duration and unit of UV exposure varied in most studies, but a method common to 15 studies was measured UV exposure as a percentage of ambient UV. The studies reviewed do not provide sufficient information for the development and evaluation of targeted youth sun protection programs. Studies are required which document precise UV exposure, concurrent activities and sun protection usage for children and adolescents.
Topics: Adolescent; Age Factors; Child; Film Dosimetry; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Radiation Dosage; Research Design; Skin Neoplasms; Sunlight; Time Factors; Ultraviolet Rays
PubMed: 16354111
DOI: 10.1562/2005-8-19-IR-655 -
Canadian Family Physician Medecin de... Jun 2001To review and distinguish between skin changes produced by aging and changes produced by habitual exposure to sun. (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
To review and distinguish between skin changes produced by aging and changes produced by habitual exposure to sun.
QUALITY OF EVIDENCE
The literature was searched from 1969 to 1999 for articles on dermatoheliosis and sun-damaged skin. Surprisingly few were found comparing the difference between elderly skin and sun-damaged skin. A few articles focused on certain small aspects of sun-damaged skin. Many excellent articles described particular changes (e.g., actinic keratosis), but few covered all the changes due to aging and to sun.
MAIN MESSAGE
Skin changes due to aging can be distinguished from those due to sun damage. All changes due to sun exposure can be grouped under the term dermatoheliosis; five parts of the skin are involved: epidermis (actinic keratosis), dermis (solar elastosis), blood vessels (telangiectasia), sebaceous glands (solar comedones), and melanocytes (diffuse or mottled brown patches). Habitual exposure to sun and a white skin are prerequisites for developing these changes. Knowing the difference between changes caused by sun and by aging can help physicians predict which patients are most likely to get skin cancers.
CONCLUSION
Knowledge of these common skin changes will help physicians diagnose and manage the skin abnormalities of elderly people and of people with dermatoheliosis.
Topics: Aged; Aging; Diagnosis, Differential; Humans; Skin Neoplasms; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Skin Pigmentation; Sunlight
PubMed: 11421052
DOI: No ID Found -
Photochemistry and Photobiology 2023Melanoma incidence is increasing, with poor prognosis cases growing faster in California Hispanics than in non-Hispanic whites. Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) exposure as a...
Melanoma incidence is increasing, with poor prognosis cases growing faster in California Hispanics than in non-Hispanic whites. Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) exposure as a child has been found to disproportionately increase the risk of melanoma. To determine correlates of UVR exposure in this high-risk population, we conducted a study in predominately Hispanic 4th and 5th grade classrooms in Los Angeles County, a high UVR environment, during the spring. To address potential reporting bias, electronic UV dosimeters were utilized to objectively measure the association between UVR exposure and constructs (acculturation, sun protective behavior and knowledge, family interventions) obtained on baseline questionnaires (n = 125). Tanning attitude (wanting to get a tan) was associated with lower median time spent outside (1.73 min versus 22.17, AUC 82.08, Sensitivity 0.78, Specificity 0.73) and standard erythemal dose (SED) on weekends, but positively associated with sun protective knowledge. Sun protective knowledge and family discussion of sunscreen were also inversely associated with objectively measured time outside. Students spent a median 30.61 (IQR 19.88) minutes outside per day (SED 0.30, IQR 0.20), with only 35.70% of it occurring in nonschool hours. We determined the majority of UVR exposure in this population occurs at school, providing valuable guidance for future interventions.
Topics: Child; Humans; Adolescent; Ultraviolet Rays; Sunlight; Self Report; Melanoma; Health Behavior; Sunscreening Agents; Sunburn; Skin Neoplasms
PubMed: 36097950
DOI: 10.1111/php.13687 -
Dermatologic Clinics Apr 2009Sunlight- and indoor ultraviolet (UV)-induced tanning is a common behavior, especially among adolescents, young adults, and individuals who have lighter skin. Excessive... (Review)
Review
Sunlight- and indoor ultraviolet (UV)-induced tanning is a common behavior, especially among adolescents, young adults, and individuals who have lighter skin. Excessive sun exposure is associated with several health risks, including the acceleration of skin aging and the promotion of skin cancers. Several health benefits of UV exposure include vitamin D production and improved mood. This article analyzes these health risks and benefits and discusses pertinent issues surrounding indoor tanning, the role of sunless tanning products, and prudent sun exposure.
Topics: Humans; Risk Factors; Skin Neoplasms; Sunbathing; Sunlight; Ultraviolet Rays; Vitamin D
PubMed: 19254658
DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2008.11.008 -
The Journal of the Kentucky Medical... Nov 1993
Topics: Humans; Radiation Dosage; Skin; Sunlight
PubMed: 8270850
DOI: No ID Found -
Photodermatology, Photoimmunology &... Nov 2018Sun sensitivity, a confounder between sun exposure and sun protection, is often overlooked. We examined how sun exposure and sun protection behaviors among indoor... (Clinical Trial)
Clinical Trial
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE
Sun sensitivity, a confounder between sun exposure and sun protection, is often overlooked. We examined how sun exposure and sun protection behaviors among indoor workers varied by sun sensitivity.
METHODS
Sun exposure and sun protection diaries over a 45-day period from Midwestern United States indoor workers were examined. We categorized sun sensitivity (fair and non-fair complexion) using tanning inability and sunburn tendency. Total exposure (sunrise to sunset) and peak exposure (10 am and 4 pm) lasting at least 60 minutes were examined. Percentages of time using sun protection were reported. We determined associations between fair complexion, mean sun exposure, and mean sun protection times with logistic regression.
RESULTS
Fair individuals spent less time in the sun than non-fair individuals, but a greater proportion of time using sun protection behaviors, including sunscreen with SPF 30+ (odds ratio (OR) = 1.36; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.98, 1.87)), or wearing long-sleeved shirts (OR = 2.89; 95% CI = 1.24, 6.73).
CONCLUSION
Fair individuals spent less time in the sun and practiced more sun protective behaviors than non-fair individuals. This complex association between sun sensitivity, sun protection and sun exposure has not consistently been addressed in studies of skin cancer.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Clothing; Female; Health Behavior; Humans; Male; Medical Records; Middle Aged; Midwestern United States; Sunlight; Sunscreening Agents
PubMed: 29888418
DOI: 10.1111/phpp.12403 -
The British Journal of Dermatology Dec 2014
Topics: Adult; Attitude to Health; Female; Health Behavior; Humans; Male; Occupational Exposure; Perception; Sunbathing; Sunburn; Sunlight; Sunscreening Agents; Ultraviolet Rays
PubMed: 24891217
DOI: 10.1111/bjd.13149 -
Cancer Epidemiology Dec 2015In both Sweden and Australia high incidence rates of skin cancer have become a major health problem. In prevention and risk communication, it is important to have...
BACKGROUND
In both Sweden and Australia high incidence rates of skin cancer have become a major health problem. In prevention and risk communication, it is important to have reliable ways for identifying people with risky sun habits. In this study the validity and reliability of the questionnaire Sun Exposure Protection Index (SEPI), developed to assess individual's sun habits and their propensity to increase sun protection during routine, often brief, clinical encounters, has been evaluated. The aim of our study was to evaluate validity and reliability of the proposed SEPI scoring instrument, in two countries with markedly different ultraviolet radiation environments (Sweden and Australia).
METHOD
Two subpopulations in Sweden and Australia respectively were asked to fill out the SEPI together with the previously evaluated Readiness to Alter Sun Protective Behaviour questionnaire (RASP-B) and the associated Sun-protective Behaviours Questionnaire. To test reliability, the SEPI was again filled out by the subjects one month later.
RESULTS
Comparison between SEPI and the questions in the Sun-protective Behaviours Questionnaire, analyzed with Spearman's Rho, showed good correlations regarding sun habits. Comparison between SEPI and RASP-B regarding propensity to increase sun protection showed concurrently lower SEPI mean scores for action stage, but no difference between precontemplation and contemplation stages. The SEPI test-retest analysis indicated stability over time. Internal consistency of the SEPI, assessed with Cronbach's alpha estimation showed values marginally lower than the desired >0.70 coefficient value generally recommended, and was somewhat negatively affected by the question on sunscreen use, likely related to the classic "sunscreen paradox". There were some differences in the performance of the SEPI between the Swedish and Australian samples, possibly due to the influence of "available" sunlight and differing attitudes to behaviour and protection "at home" and on vacation.
CONCLUSIONS
SEPI appears to be a stable instrument with an overall acceptable validity and reliability, applicable for use in populations exposed to different UVR environments, in order to evaluate individual sun exposure and protection.
Topics: Adult; Australia; Female; Health Behavior; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Reproducibility of Results; Skin Neoplasms; Sunbathing; Sunlight; Sunscreening Agents; Surveys and Questionnaires; Sweden; Ultraviolet Rays
PubMed: 26547793
DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2015.10.022 -
Optometry and Vision Science : Official... Feb 2017To evaluate feasibility and repeatability of measures for ocular sun exposure and conjunctival ultraviolet autofluorescence (UVAF), and to test for relationships between...
PURPOSE
To evaluate feasibility and repeatability of measures for ocular sun exposure and conjunctival ultraviolet autofluorescence (UVAF), and to test for relationships between the outcomes.
METHODS
Fifty volunteers were seen for two visits 14 ± 2 days apart. Ocular sun exposure was estimated over a 2-week time period using questionnaires that quantified time outdoors and ocular protection habits. Conjunctival UVAF was imaged using a Nikon D7000 camera system equipped with appropriate flash and filter system; image analysis was done using ImageJ software. Repeatability estimates were made using Bland-Altman plots with mean differences and 95% limits of agreement calculated. Non-normally distributed data was transformed by either log10 or square root methods. Linear regression was conducted to evaluate relationships between measures.
RESULTS
Mean (±SD) values for ocular sun exposure and conjunctival UVAF were 8.86 (±11.97) hours and 9.15 (±9.47) mm, respectively. Repeatability was found to be acceptable for both ocular sun exposure and conjunctival UVAF. Univariate linear regression showed outdoor occupation to be a predictor of higher ocular sun exposure; outdoor occupation and winter season of collection both predicted higher total UVAF. Furthermore, increased portion of day spent outdoors while working was associated with increased total conjunctival UVAF.
CONCLUSIONS
We demonstrate feasibility and repeatability of estimating ocular sun exposure using a previously unreported method and for conjunctival UVAF in a group of subjects residing in Ohio. Seasonal temperature variation may have influenced time outdoors and ultimately calculation of ocular sun exposure. As winter season of collection and outdoor occupation both predicted higher total UVAF, our data suggests that ocular sun exposure is associated with conjunctival UVAF and, possibly, that UVAF remains for at least several months after sun exposure.
Topics: Adult; Conjunctiva; Environmental Exposure; Female; Healthy Volunteers; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Reproducibility of Results; Seasons; Sunlight; Surveys and Questionnaires; Ultraviolet Rays; Young Adult
PubMed: 27820717
DOI: 10.1097/OPX.0000000000001014 -
PloS One 2022To determine the prevalence and risk factors for pterygium in geographically diverse regions of India.
The association of sun exposure, ultraviolet radiation effects and other risk factors for pterygium (the SURE RISK for pterygium study) in geographically diverse adult (≥40 years) rural populations of India -3rd report of the ICMR-EYE SEE study group.
PURPOSE
To determine the prevalence and risk factors for pterygium in geographically diverse regions of India.
METHODS
A population-based, cross-sectional multicentric study was conducted in adults aged ≥40 years in plains, hilly and coastal regions of India. All participants underwent a detailed questionnaire-based assessment for sun exposure, usage of sun protective measures, exposure to indoor smoke, and smoking. Detailed ocular and systemic examinations were performed. Pterygium was diagnosed and graded clinically by slit-lamp examination. Association of pterygium with sociodemographic, ophthalmological, and systemic parameters was assessed. Physical environmental parameters for the study period were estimated.
RESULTS
Of the 12,021 eligible subjects, 9735 (81% response rate) participated in the study. The prevalence of pterygium in any eye was 13.2% (95% CI: 12.5%-13.9%), and bilateral pterygium was 6.7% (95% CI: 6.2-7.2). The prevalence increased with age (<0.001) irrespective of sex and was highest in those aged 60-69 years (15.8%). The prevalence was highest in coastal (20.3%), followed by plains (11.2%) and hilly regions (9.1%). On multi-logistic regression, pterygium was positively associated with coastal location (P<0.001), illiteracy (P = 0.037), increasing lifetime sun exposure (P<0.001), and negatively associated with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (P = 0.009).
CONCLUSION
Pterygium prevalence is high in the rural Indian population. The association of pterygium with several potentially modifiable risk factors reflects its multifactorial etiology and provides targets for preventive measures.
Topics: Adult; Conjunctiva; Cross-Sectional Studies; Humans; Prevalence; Pterygium; Risk Factors; Rural Population; Sunlight; Ultraviolet Rays
PubMed: 35862365
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270065