Sunglasses use, UV protection, and knowledge of UV radiation among adults in Poland: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation (UVR) is an environmental risk factor for several ocular conditions. This study aimed to assess sunglasses use patterns and awareness of UV-related eye health risks, as well as to identify sociodemographic factors associated with sunglasses use among adults in Poland.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted in March 13-17, 2026 among 1090 adults in Poland. Data were collected using the computer-assisted web interview technique. A quota-based sample was used. Sunglasses use, UV protection, outdoor exposure, knowledge of UVR, and barriers to use were assessed.

RESULTS

Frequent sunglasses use was reported by 58.5% of respondents on sunny spring/summer days, but only by 23.5% on cloudy spring/summer days. Less than half of respondents (44.2%) declared using sunglasses with UV protection, while 22.3% did not know whether their sunglasses provided such protection. Overall knowledge of UVR was relatively good, although 47.2% incorrectly believed that darker lenses provide better UV protection. In multivariable logistic regression, female gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41-2.34, p < 0.001), occupational activity (aOR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.35-2.52, p < 0.001), living in cities <20 000 residents (aOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.04-2.35, p = 0.03), and having a doctor-diagnosed eye condition (aOR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.11-1.90, p = 0.007) were significantly associated with frequent sunglasses use on sunny days during spring and summer. Older age (40-49 years: aOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.08-2.72, p = 0.02; 50-59 years: aOR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.22-3.05, p = 0.005), higher education (aOR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.15-1.94, p = 0.002), occupational activity (aOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.28-2.51, p < 0.001), living in the largest cities (≥500 000 residents: aOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.20-2.68, p = 0.005), and having a doctor-diagnosed eye condition (aOR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.28-2.17, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with the use of sunglasses with UV protection.

CONCLUSIONS

Sunglasses use among adults in Poland is insufficient, particularly under cloudy conditions, and misconceptions regarding UV protection remain common. These findings indicate the need for targeted public health interventions to improve awareness and promote appropriate UV eye protection. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2026;39(4):390-406.