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UV doses of young adults
Dianne E Godar1, Frederick Urbach, Francis P Gasparro
1Radiation Biology Branch, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Rockville, MD 20852, USA. deg@cdrh.fda.gov
Photochemistry and Photobiology
|May 8, 2003
Summary
Common advice suggests 80% of lifetime ultraviolet (UV) exposure occurs by age 18. However, research shows individuals receive less than 25% of their lifetime UV dose by this age, necessitating lifelong sun protection.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- A long-standing belief suggests 80% of lifetime ultraviolet (UV) exposure is acquired by age 18.
- This notion stemmed from a misinterpretation of data linking sunscreen use to nonmelanoma skin cancer incidence.
- The original calculations incorrectly assumed a linear relationship between UV dose and cancer incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the actual percentage of lifetime ultraviolet (UV) dose acquired by age 18.
- To correct the public health messaging regarding UV exposure and skin cancer prevention.
- To inform evidence-based recommendations for lifelong sun protection.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of UV exposure data to determine cumulative dose by age.
- Comparison of UV exposure patterns across different geographical regions.
- Review of the relationship between UV dose and nonmelanoma skin cancer development.
Main Results:
- Contrary to popular belief, individuals acquire less than 25% of their lifetime UV dose by age 18.
- This pattern of UV exposure appears consistent globally, including in Australia, the UK, and the Netherlands.
- UV-initiated cellular damage early in life can be exacerbated by later exposures, contributing to tumor development.
Conclusions:
- The widely cited statistic of 80% lifetime UV dose by age 18 is inaccurate.
- Lifelong protection from excessive UV radiation is crucial for preventing skin cancers, particularly for fair-skinned individuals.
- Public health education should emphasize continuous sun safety measures throughout life.