Concerns about vitamin D and sun exposure behaviour among Australians

Australians' concerns about vitamin D and influence on sun protection were last quantified a decade ago in Queensland amidst media attention on emerging evidence of non-skeletal benefits of vitamin D. Meanwhile these circumstances persist and impact is worth assessing.

Measures of concern about vitamin D were included in three recent population-based cross-sectional surveys of Australians' sun-related behaviours during summer months (2010-2011, 2013-2014 and 2016-2017). We analysed characteristics, beliefs and behaviours associated with vitamin D concerns regarding regular sunscreen use among adults in 2016-2017 (N = 3614).

Concerns about vitamin D continued to persist among adults surveyed between 2010-2011 and 2016-2017. Vitamin D concerns regarding the sunscreen use were more common among women, older respondents and adults with skin that tans or is not susceptible to sunburn. Respondents concerned about vitamin D were more likely to exhibit pro-tanning beliefs, scepticism about sunscreen safety and have attempted a suntan. They were also less likely to use sun protection in everyday activities outdoors and less likely to use sunscreen on summer weekends.

Vitamin D concerns related to sunscreen use remained common among Australian adults. Skin cancer control advocates may be reassured that those with the greatest skin cancer risk (burn only) were less likely to hold these concerns, while the related infrequent sun protection and tanning among concerned adults are problematic. SO WHAT?: Continued education and research is needed to ensure that the general public understand the risks and benefits of sun exposure in Australia.