Sun Exposure: Habits and Knowledge of Undergraduate Medical Students

Abstract

Introduction: It is basic knowledge in medical training that ultraviolet radiation can cause extensive damage to the skin and that sun protection is important to avoid such damages. This information should be deepened and discussed among undergraduate students in any field of health sciences. In addition, it is believed that the impact of information should result in the application of knowledge in the routine of who receives it. Therefore, this work aimed to identify whether medical students of a given educational institution have acquired this information and put it into practice. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of medical students about sun exposure correlating it with the applicability of this information in their routine. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out with 207 students attending Medical School at the University of Passo Fundo - RS - from July to December 2016. The data were obtained through a standardized self-applicable questionnaire. Results: 93.6% of students said they had received instruction on photoprotection; 84.4% had already attended the dermatology course, of which 77.3% had been in contact with skin cancer patients. However, only 29.6% of all students interviewed reported using sunscreen daily. Conclusion: The results showed that the surveyed students know that inadequate sun exposure has harmful effects on the skin, but do not have the habit of photoprotection. Knowledge is present but it is not applied. DESCRIPTORS Dermatology.Photoprotection.Solar Radiation.Education.