Sun Exposure and Protection Practices Among University Students

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Sun Exposure and Usage of Sun Protection: Knowledge, Perception and Practice among University Students
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Sadeel A. Shanshal, Shahad M. Khaleel, Sawsan H. Hammoodi


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Sun Exposure and Usage of Sun Protection: Knowledge, Perception and Practice among University Students

Year: 2024 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.2.19

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Exposure to sunlight is critical for vitamin D synthesis, but it is also associated with various adverse effects, including skin pigmentation issues and skin cancer. As the incidence of skin cancer has increased in recent years, particularly due to more time spent outdoors, understanding protective measures against harmful sun exposure has become paramount. A study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of undergraduate students in Iraq regarding the dangers of sun exposure and the use of sun protection methods. The aim was to assess the level of awareness within this population, given their potential susceptibility to UV-related health issues.

Knowledge and Usage of Sunscreen

The study revealed a concerning lack of adequate knowledge about sun exposure among the participants, with only 47% demonstrating sufficient awareness. Notably, the knowledge levels were associated with various factors including gender, educational background, study year, and living environment. For example, female participants, medical college students, and those residing in urban areas tended to have better knowledge scores. Additionally, while a significant number of students reported using sunscreen—approximately 71%—the understanding of proper usage, such as the reapplication of sunscreen every two hours and the need for protection even on cloudy days, was inadequate. This indicates a gap between the reported use of sunscreen and the effective practices necessary for true sun protection.

Conclusion

The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for enhanced education and awareness regarding sun exposure and protective measures among university students in Iraq. The inadequacy of knowledge, particularly among male participants and those from non-medical backgrounds, underscores the importance of targeted educational campaigns. Health authorities should implement initiatives, including workshops, social media campaigns, and on-campus seminars, to improve public understanding of the harmful effects of sun exposure and promote effective sun protection behaviors. By addressing these knowledge gaps, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and other related health issues in the population.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the harmful effects of sun exposure?

Sun exposure can lead to various skin problems, including sunburn, premature skin aging, pigmentation issues, and different types of skin cancer.

How knowledgeable are undergraduate students about sun protection?

The study revealed that over half of the participants (53%) had inadequate knowledge regarding the adverse effects of sun exposure and the necessary protective measures.

What factors influence students' use of sunscreen products?

Key factors include skin type, advice from healthcare specialists, and media influence. Urban residents and medical students showed higher knowledge and usage of sunscreens.

How can awareness about sun protection be improved?

Health authorities should conduct educational campaigns through social media, posters, and seminars to enhance public understanding of sun exposure effects and protective measures.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Sun Exposure and Protection Practices Among University Students”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Knowledge:
Knowledge, in the context of the study, refers to the understanding and information participants have about the harmful effects of sun exposure and protective measures such as sunscreens. Adequate knowledge is essential for effective sun protection practices, which can mitigate risks like skin cancer and other health complications stemming from UV exposure.

2) Study (Studying):
The study is a cross-sectional research designed to assess the knowledge, perception, and practices of undergraduate students regarding sun exposure and protective measures. It utilized a web-based questionnaire to gather data from participants, aiming to illuminate gaps in awareness and inform future educational initiatives to promote sun safety.

3) Table:
Tables are used in the study to present data systematically, allowing for easy comparison and analysis of participant responses. They summarize sociodemographic characteristics, levels of knowledge, and attitudes towards sun protection measures, thereby providing a clear visual representation of the data collected during the research process.

4) Cancer:
Cancer, particularly skin cancer, is a significant risk associated with inadequate protection from UV radiation. The study emphasizes the importance of awareness and protective behaviors to reduce the incidence of skin cancer among university students, highlighting the need for effective education on the risks posed by sun exposure.

5) Perception:
Perception refers to how individuals interpret and understand the risks associated with sun exposure and the effectiveness of protective measures. In the study, participants' perceptions influence their willingness to adopt sun safety practices, making it vital to address misconceptions for improving overall sun protection behaviors.

6) Male:
In the context of the study, males represent a demographic group whose knowledge and practices regarding sun exposure and protection are analyzed. The findings revealed significant differences, often indicating that female participants had better knowledge and practices related to sun safety, underscoring the need for targeted educational efforts.

7) Reason:
Reason refers to the motivations or justifications behind participants' behaviors, such as their choice to use or not use sunscreens. Understanding these reasons is crucial for developing tailored interventions that address barriers to sun protection adherence among various demographics, especially among those who reported feeling discomfort.

8) Reliability:
Reliability indicates the consistency of the questionnaire used in the study to assess knowledge and practices. It helps confirm that the data obtained is trustworthy and can be repeated in future studies to yield similar results, thereby enhancing the credibility of the research findings.

9) Indian:
Indian refers to a specific demographic represented in the study, particularly as it relates to their knowledge and practices concerning sun exposure and protection measures. The study draws comparisons with findings from similar research in India, providing context for cultural differences in sun safety awareness.

10) Disease:
Disease signifies health conditions that can arise from prolonged sun exposure, such as skin cancers and vitamin D deficiency. The study aims to raise awareness among participants about these potential diseases and promote protective measures as preventative strategies against such health risks.

11) Rules:
Rules in this context might refer to guidelines or best practices for sun protection that participants should follow to minimize risks associated with UV exposure. Understanding and adhering to these rules is essential for effective sun safety and long-term health.

12) Medicine:
Medicine represents the field concerned with health, treatment, and disease prevention, particularly related to skin conditions caused by sun exposure. The study ties the importance of medical knowledge to improved sun safety practices, as individuals with medical backgrounds typically possess higher awareness of related health risks.

13) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning signifies the painful effects of sun exposure leading to sunburn. It serves as a crucial warning sign of the damaging impact UV radiation can have on the skin, reinforcing the importance of utilizing protective measures to prevent burning.

14) India:
India is mentioned in the context of comparative studies on sun protection awareness among youth. Findings from the study resonate with those from Indian student populations, providing insights into cultural attitudes and knowledge regarding sun exposure and protective practices in different geographic regions.

15) Hand:
Hand may refer to the physical application of sunscreen and other protective measures on exposed skin areas. It underscores the practical aspect of sun protection behaviors, emphasizing the act of personally applying appropriate products to safeguard against UV exposure.

16) Discussion:
Discussion serves to interpret the results of the study, elaborating on the significance of findings in the context of existing literature. It provides an opportunity to analyze the implications of the data and recommend actionable strategies for enhancing sun safety awareness among university students.

17) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of creating or enhancing knowledge and practices related to sun safety among participants. It encompasses educational campaigns and strategies aimed at improving awareness and behavior in the context of sun exposure and protection against skin-related diseases.

18) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a region in India referenced for comparative analysis regarding sun safety knowledge and practices. Including this geographical context illustrates how regional factors may influence awareness and behaviors related to sun exposure and sun protection in the broader framework of the study.

19) Attending:
Attending refers to the participation of university students in the study or in educational programs regarding sun safety. It highlights the importance of engagement in discussions and workshops that focus on enhancing understanding and knowledge about proper sun protection practices among young adults.

20) Shriranga (Sriranga, Shrirangam, Srirangam, Shri-ranga, Shriramga):
Sriranga might refer to a specific figure or context within the study, possibly linked to research or findings significant for the discussion. Contextual references to such names can imply key contributions or highlight relevant studies associated with sun exposure and skin health.

21) Quality:
Quality pertains to the standard of knowledge and practices regarding sun protection among the study participants. Ensuring high quality of education and awareness is imperative to equip individuals with the necessary information to make informed decisions about sun safety.

22) Gupta:
Gupta likely refers to an author or relevant figure in the context of existing literature mentioned within the study. Recognizing contributions from various authors enhances the discourse around sun exposure knowledge and practices, correlating various studies on the subject.

23) King:
King may refer to a particular institution, study leader, or context in the research field associated with sun exposure knowledge and practices. It emphasizes the significance of leadership and scholarly contributions in advancing understanding around public health issues.

24) Pain:
Pain could relate to the immediate discomfort caused by sunburn and the long-term ramifications of skin damage from UV exposure. Understanding the connection between sun exposure, pain, and subsequent skin conditions is crucial for motivating healthier sun-related behaviors.

25) Hadi:
Hadi could refer to a researcher or influential figure whose work is cited or relevant to the study. Such references contribute to the larger narrative on sun safety and protective practices, linking the study to broader discussions on public health.

26) Life:
Life signifies the broader context of health and wellbeing impacted by sun exposure. The study aims to clarify how sun safety practices can enhance quality of life by preventing skin-related diseases and promoting overall wellness among university students.

27) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis represents one of the health issues associated with vitamin D deficiency, which is also worsened by inadequate sun exposure. Students' understanding of the relationship between sun safety, vitamin D levels, and disease prevention is integral to the findings of the study.

28) Science (Scientific):
Scientific underscores the underpinnings of the research methodology and findings, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices in public health. A solid scientific approach in evaluating sun exposure knowledge helps derive conclusions that are critical for developing effective educational interventions.

29) Suffering:
Suffering may refer to the adverse health effects experienced due to inadequate sun protection and knowledge. Recognizing the potential suffering associated with skin conditions can drive the necessity for enhanced education on sun safety practices among the participants.

30) Falling:
Falling might relate to the decrease or decline in knowledge and practices observed among certain demographics in the study. Understanding the factors contributing to falling knowledge levels can inform targeted strategies for improvement in sun safety awareness.

31) Mineral:
Mineral references could pertain to mineral ingredients found in sunscreen formulas. Knowledge about these ingredients is vital for understanding how effective sunscreens protect the skin. This information is crucial for informed product selection amongst participants.

32) Allergy:
Allergy may refer to potential allergic reactions related to sunscreen use. This highlights the importance of knowledge concerning the types of products used, as well as the need for understanding how to choose sunscreens that minimize allergic responses while ensuring protection.

33) Desire:
Desire highlights the motivation individuals may have to engage in protective actions against sun exposure. Cultivating a desire to prioritize sun safety is essential for adopting effective sun protection behaviors that reduce the risks of skin damage and related diseases.

34) Filling (Filled):
Filled might refer to the extent to which the questionnaire received complete responses from participants. High completion rates strengthen the validity of the findings, whereas gaps can indicate areas where additional encouragement or instruction may be required for participant engagement.

35) Campu:
Campu likely refers to the academic environment in which the study was conducted, emphasizing the unique setting of university life and its implications for health education. Focused educational initiatives within such settings can effectively nurture awareness and positive behavior regarding sun safety among students.

36) Post:
Post may signify various contexts in which findings are disseminated, such as articles or discussions post-research. Sharing outcomes on platforms or forums related to health education can enhance community awareness surrounding sun safety practices and empower individuals to adopt better protective measures.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Sun Exposure and Protection Practices Among University Students’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Urban area, Adverse effect, Protective measures, Medical college, Social media, Habit, Significant difference, University students, Age-group, Adequate knowledge, Media influence, Rural area, Cross-sectional study, Vitamin D, Vitamin D levels, Vitamin D deficiency, Knowledge level, Mean score, Odds ratio, Confidence interval, Sociodemographic characteristics, Skin type, Skin care, Skin cancer, Sun exposure, Sun protection, Sun Protection Factor, Mean knowledge score, Clinical pharmacy department, Undergraduate students, Medical personnel, Nursing students, Health belief model, Skin protection, Health authorities, Educational campaign, Knowledge Score, Inadequate Knowledge, Skin Problem, Behavioural modification, Awareness and attitude, Web-based questionnaire, Sunlight exposure, Sunscreen application, Logistic regression analysis, Univariate analysis, Protective clothing, Urban residence, Sunscreen products, Sunburn, Sunscreen usage, Male participants, SPF value, Female participants, Peak time.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Knowledge, Awareness, Media, First year, Knowledge-section, ATTITUDE.

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