Gender aspects of recreational sun-protective behavior: results of a representative, population-based survey among Austrian residents.

PURPOSE: Lifetime risk for melanoma skin cancer is enlarged by sunlight exposure and reduced by sun protection. Austrian melanoma incidence and mortality rates are constantly rising with higher rates in males. Thus, we aimed at investigating gender-specific recreational sun exposure habits among the Austrian population.

METHODS

We conducted a telephone survey among 1500 adults (50.5% females) representing sociodemographic characteristics of the Austrian population. Using a structured questionnaire, we studied gender-specific sun exposure-related knowledge, motives to tan, and behavior.

RESULTS

Overall, using sunscreen, wearing sunglasses, and seeking shade were among the three most frequent sun safe measures. Basic skin health knowledge and tanning motives were similar among genders, although females protected themselves more. In general, sunburn occurrence (odds ratio [OR] = 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0-1.8), skin type IV (OR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.3-4.5), ex-/non-smoking (OR = 1.4-1.6, 95% CI = 1.0-2.1), low motives to tan (both OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.0-1.7), no outdoor sport (OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.0-1.7), all P < 0.05, as well as the use of sunscreen with lower SPF values (OR = 1.0-3.0, 95% CI = 1.4-4.3) and male gender (OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.2-2.0), both P < 0.001, increased the odds of practicing low sun protection.

CONCLUSION

The results of this investigation suggest considering gender specificity when planning Public (Skin) Health-related educative campaigns and programs, for example, by highlighting the appearance-related benefits of sun light avoidance.