Photoprotection habits and behaviors among Olympic-level rowers from four different countries: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Outdoor athletes are at increased risk of ultraviolet (UV) radiation-related skin damage, yet photoprotection practices in elite rowers remain poorly investigated.

METHODS

This study employs a cross-sectional design. An online survey was conducted using the Google Forms platform, and a self-administered form was used to gather the participants' sociodemographic details, sporting practices, and sun protection usage habits. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of photoprotection behaviors.

RESULTS

The study sample comprised 78 Olympic canoeists from Italy, Australia, Sweden, and Brazil. While a majority of athletes reported occasional use of sunscreen, only 38.5% performed sunscreen reapplication during prolonged outdoor training. Unexpectedly, higher educational attainment was associated with a reduced likelihood of sunscreen use (OR=0.07, 95% CI: 0.01-0.41; P=0.003). Lighter phototypes were positively associated with sunscreen use (OR=17.62, 95% CI: 2.16-143.80; P=0.007). Sunglasses use was significantly associated with male gender (OR=7.00, 95% CI: 1.17-41.76; P=0.033). No significant predictors were found for hat use or self-skin examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Olympic-level rowers exhibit suboptimal sun protection behaviors, with low rates of sunscreen reapplication and self-examination. Educational level alone may not predict appropriate photoprotection adherence in elite athletes. Targeted interventions are needed to promote comprehensive sun safety practices in this high-risk population.