Adolescent sun protection at secondary school athletic sporting events - a misnomer.

OBJECTIVE

To observe the sun-protective practices of students and staff and related aspects of the physical environment at secondary school athletics days.

METHODS

This observational study of 1,225 students and 215 adult supervisors examined the use of sun-protective items (hats, clothing coverage, sunglasses), sunscreen provision and shade.

RESULTS

Sun-protective behaviour was poor with only 3% of students and 25% of adult supervisors wearing a sun-protective hat. Shade was not available to most students, either as competitors or while waiting to compete. Sunscreen provision was 50%.

CONCLUSION

Portable shade for students waiting to compete should be available at competitive events. Students should be encouraged to wear sun-protective hats and clothing while not competing and SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen should always be provided. Guidelines for adult supervisors should be developed so they role model appropriate sun protection.