Outdoor Workers’ Perceptions of Risks of Excess Sun-Exposure

Tuesday December 8, 2009

For the first time in New Zealand a study undertaken by NZ researchers has investigated how outdoor workers perceive their personal risk of developing skin cancer.  The study also examined how these perceptions relate to one method of sun protection – sunscreen use.

According to the authors, research from other sources suggests that outdoor workers, who make up a significant proportion of the New Zealand workforce (estimated at 14.5%), may be reluctant users of sun-protection and may not be well-informed of the negative effects of excessive sun-exposure.  The authors cite a range of factors that are likely to contribute to outdoor workers’ perceptions of workplace sun-exposure and their risk of developing skin cancer as well as their use of sun protection.  These include demographic factors, such as age group, gender and ethnicity, as well as workplace cultures and sun protection policies.   The objectives of the study were to assess such factors, with a view to informing the design and targeting of possible interventions.

According to the results outlined in the study abstract, sunscreen use was associated with perceived prioritization of sun-protection, concern about sun-exposure, knowledge about the effects of sun-exposure and perceived supportive workplace culture.  These variables accounted for 37% of the variation in sunscreen use.  Maori, younger workers and forestry workers were least likely to report sunscreen use and sun-exposure risk perception.

The authors conclude that interventions that strengthen knowledge about risks and values of sun protection are likely to increase sun protection efforts.  However, interventions for outdoor workers need to take into account potential socio-demographic, personal and workplace influences to prevent the risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancers within this population group.

Source:   J Occup Health 2009; 51: 404-411
http://joh.med.uoeh-u.ac.jp/e/