Predictors of the Use of Sunscreen in Dermatological Patients in Central Europe

Background. There is mounting evidence that sun exposure is a cause of skin cancer. Therefore, the focus of skin cancer prevention is on sun protection. The present study investigated the use of sunscreens in a sample from the adult Central European population. Methods. As part of a case-control study of cutaneous melanoma, a total of 498 controls with classical dermatological disorders were selected from hospitals in Central Europe. All people underwent whole-body skin examinations and were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. Results. Overall, 40.8% of the people never used sunscreen and of the 281 persons who used sunscreen, 41.5% applied it only once per sun bath. Persons who did not use sunscreen tended to be older (P < 0.0001) and of male gender (P = 0.0004). Young people, women, and people who expressed a positive attitude to the sun spent more time in the sun and were more likely to apply sunscreens. People who worked almost always outdoors had a six times increased odds ratio of not using sunscreens (P < 0.0001) compared to people who worked always indoors. Conclusions. Men, older people, and outdoor workers should be targeted in health education campaigns. On the other hand, people who apply sunscreen as a means of sun protection should be advised about adequate usage.