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Casualties of the sun
1Department of Public Health Medicine, Northern Health & Social Services Board, Ballymena.
The Ulster Medical Journal
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Sunburns frequently affect young adults aged 16-30, with males presenting more often overall. Blisters occurred in 30% of patients, particularly younger males, highlighting the need for targeted health promotion.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sunburn is a common dermatological issue.
- Epidemiological data is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the demographics and characteristics of sunburn attendances.
- To inform health promotion strategies for sunburn prevention.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patient attendances for sunburn.
- Data collected from Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments and general practices.
- Analysis covered two summer periods: 1994 and 1995.
Main Results:
- 430 patients attended for sunburn.
- The modal age group was 16-30 years.
- Males presented more frequently than females overall, with specific age-related patterns.
- Blisters were documented in 30% of patients, more common in males under 16.
- Affected areas in females showed correlation with cutaneous malignant melanoma sites.
Conclusions:
- Sunburn affects a broad age range, with a peak in young adults.
- Demographic data can guide effective health promotion campaigns.
- Understanding sunburn patterns is vital for resource allocation in healthcare.