Sun protection as a protective factor for actinic cheilitis: Cross-sectional population-based study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a precancerous condition of the lips, primarily caused by chronic sun exposure.
• Understanding preventive measures like sun protection is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between sun protection habits and the occurrence of actinic cheilitis (AC) in adults residing in southern Brazil.

Main Methods:

• A multi-stage proportional sample of 404 adults (≥18 years) was recruited.
• Data collection involved household interviews and clinical examinations.
• Multivariable Poisson regression analysis was employed to assess associations, considering self-reported sun protection categories.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of actinic cheilitis (AC) was 47.1% in the study population.
• While initial analysis showed no direct association, a significant interaction was found between sun protection and duration of sun exposure.
• Individuals with ≥4 hours of daily sun exposure who used physical or physical + chemical sun protection had a 33-36% lower likelihood of AC.

Conclusions:

• Physical and chemical sun protection are associated with a reduced incidence of actinic cheilitis (AC).
• This protective effect is particularly evident in individuals with substantial daily sun exposure.