Protection Against Solar Ultraviolet Radiation in Outdoor Construction Workers: Study Protocol for a Non-randomized...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Dermatology
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) incidence is rising, with outdoor workers facing a significantly higher risk due to occupational solar exposure.
• Poor sun-safety behaviors, including inadequate sunscreen use, are prevalent among outdoor workers, necessitating effective interventions.
• Reducing ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is crucial for mitigating NMSC risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a technology-driven intervention designed to increase sunscreen use among construction workers.
• To investigate UV-protective behaviors, assess external and internal UV doses, and determine the prevalence of NMSC, including actinic keratosis (AK).

Main Methods:

• A non-randomized controlled intervention study involving approximately 200 construction workers over 12 weeks.
• Intervention group received sunscreen dispensers (SPF 50+) and feedback via continuous electronic monitoring; control group received basic UV information.
• Data collected included self-reported sunscreen use, stratum corneum (SC) biomarker analysis for internal UV dose, personal UV-sensor data for external UV dose, and skin checks for NMSC/AK.

Main Results:

• Primary outcome: change in self-reported sunscreen use from baseline to 12 weeks.
• Secondary outcomes: levels of SC biomarkers, external UV dose, sunburn episodes, and prevalence of NMSC/AK.
• Process outcome: electronically monitored sunscreen consumption.

Conclusions:

• The study aims to provide evidence for a technology-driven intervention's effectiveness in promoting sunscreen use in outdoor construction workers.
• Findings will enhance understanding of UV exposure, protective behaviors, and NMSC prevalence in this occupational group.