PD14 Trends, knowledge and practice on sunscreen use in patients referred via the suspected cancer pathway: a multisite survey

Abstract Sunscreens are widely accepted as a safe and effective method for reducing skin cancer incidence and addressing photoageing and sun-induced pigmentary changes. Market research indicates a worldwide increase in sunscreen sales; however, real-world data on consumer understanding, selection and use of these products remain scarce. A questionnaire was distributed to patients attending clinics in five hospital sites after referral for suspected skin cancers. Data collected included demographics, occupation and previous dermatological diagnosis. Sunscreen use, sun protection factor (SPF), ultraviolet star rating, presence of a visible light filter, and frequency and anatomical areas of application were also recorded. Understanding of SPF definition was assessed using a multiple-choice question. Data were analysed using SPSS software (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA), and a χ2-test was applied to identify associations between patient characteristics and sunscreen use. In total, responses were received from 126 patients; 54 (43%) were male and 72 (57%) female. The most frequent age category was 61–70 years (n = 31, 25%) and, where data on skin type were captured, Fitzpatrick types I and II were most prevalent (n = 62, 84%). Of the responses regarding employment, 16 (29%) worked in outdoor occupations. Overall, 63 patients had no prior dermatoses (49%). Of the 126 respondents, 97 stated regular use of a sunscreen product, which was significantly associated with female sex: χ2 (1, n = 126) = 14.4, P 0.001. No relationship was identified between age or occupation and sunscreen use. Products were applied in sunny weather (n = 76, 66%), rather than daily. SPF 50 was the most frequent factor used (n = 39, 41%). In total, 84 (87%) did not know whether their product contained a visible light filter. The scalp was a frequently missed site of application (n = 17, 16% applied to the scalp). Approximately half of responses (n = 47, 53%) reported the correct definition of SPF. Evidence suggests that those with previous cutaneous malignancy tend to be better educated on SPF properties of sunscreen than the general population. However, there are very limited data available on understanding of visible light blockage. In this survey only 13% knew whether their sunscreen contained a visible light filter, which confers major advantages in reducing hyperpigmentation and photoageing. As ultraviolet vs. visible light protection varies between products, targeted education may enable better choices. Men are statistically more likely to develop skin cancers, yet they underutilize sunscreens, frequently omitting high-risk sites for carcinogenesis, which our findings corroborate.