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Ultraviolet exposure to children from sunlight: a study using personal dosimetry
F S Rosenthal1, R A Lew, L J Rouleau
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester.
Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Childhood ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, particularly UVB, is a risk factor for skin disease. Wrist exposure was significantly higher than facial exposure in children during outdoor activities, with high individual variability.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Environmental Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Childhood sun exposure, especially to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, is linked to increased risk of skin diseases later in life.
- Quantifying UV exposure in children is crucial for understanding and mitigating these risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the ultraviolet B (UVB) radiant exposure on children's wrists and faces during outdoor activities.
- To compare site-specific UVB exposure to ambient UVB levels and assess variability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized polysulfone film badges attached directly to children's skin to measure UVB exposure over several hours.
- Simultaneously measured ambient UVB levels to determine exposure ratios.
- Collected data during mixed outdoor activities at a summer camp.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated significant intersubject variability in UVB exposure ratios (site-specific to ambient).
- Observed a parity between right and left wrist sample measurements.
- Found significantly higher UVB exposure on the wrist compared to the face.
Conclusions:
- The measurement technique was well-accepted by child participants.
- Further research is needed in diverse settings and incorporating childhood activity patterns for a comprehensive assessment of UV exposure.
- Wrist skin may receive higher UVB doses than facial skin during typical childhood outdoor activities.