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

Abstract

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.