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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
12:37
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Sun exposure at school
A F Moise1, P G Büttner, S L Harrison
1School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia. aurel.moise@jcu.edu.au
Photochemistry and Photobiology
|August 26, 1999
Summary
Childhood sun exposure significantly increases skin cancer risk. This study found students can receive up to 47% of their daily ultraviolet radiation (UVR) dose at school, highlighting the need for better shade structures.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood sun exposure is a key factor in skin cancer development.
- Adolescents receive a significant portion of daily ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure during school hours.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the average daily erythemally effective UVR dose for grade 8 students at school.
- To assess UVR exposure levels under shade structures and during outdoor activities.
Main Methods:
- UV measurements of shade locations and student UVR dose estimation using a UV-Biometer.
- Questionnaires and frequency counts to determine student behavior and time spent outdoors.
- Calculation of annual and daily UVR doses for students.
Main Results:
- Up to 47% of the daily total UVR dose was received during school hours.
- Students involved in sports without seeking shade could receive up to 14 standard erythemal doses (SED) daily.
- The average annual UVR dose at school was 414 SED (2 SED/school day), with this dose exceeded on 31% of school days.
Conclusions:
- Schools are significant sites for adolescent UVR exposure, contributing to skin cancer risk.
- Current sun protection behaviors at school are often inadequate.
- Improved design of school shade structures is crucial for reducing harmful UVR exposure.
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