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Sun awareness and sun protection practices in Malta
L Scerri1, S Aquilina, Gauci A Amato
1Department of Dermatology, Sir Paul Boffa Hospital, Floriana, Malta. lsc@mail.global.net.mt
Summary
Annual sun protection campaigns in Malta show success in children, but adult awareness of sun dangers and protective behaviors needs improvement. Further education is crucial to combat skin cancer and aging risks.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rising incidence of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers in Malta.
- Annual public awareness campaigns on sun exposure dangers and protection since the early 1990s.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate current sun protection measures among the Maltese population.
- Assess public knowledge of the harmful effects of sun exposure on the skin.
- Inform future sun safety campaign strategies.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 559 pedestrians interviewed in Malta's capital city during summer 1999.
- Data collection on self-reported sunscreen and hat usage.
- Assessment of knowledge regarding sun exposure effects.
Main Results:
- Adults reported 51% sunscreen and 32% hat use for leisure; 25% sunscreen and 37% hat use for work.
- Men used sunscreen less than women; fairer-skinned outdoor workers used less protection.
- High reported sun protection use in children (87% sunscreen, 78% hat).
- Majority knew sun exposure causes skin cancer/aging, but 48% considered a non-burning tan 'healthy'.
Conclusions:
- Past campaigns positively impacted children's sun protection habits.
- Significant need to address adult attitudes towards 'healthy tans' and sun protection.
- Mass media is the primary source of public information on sun effects.