Knowledge and awareness about the harmful effects of sun exposure on the skin and sun safety methods used in the adult Kuwaiti population: A questionnaire-based study

Background

Sun exposure can have both positive and negative effects on human health.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the awareness level about sun harmful effects on the skin of adult Kuwaitis and to study their attitudes and practices of using sun-protective methods.

Methods

Observational multicentric questionnaire study was conducted on patients who visited primary health care centers in Kuwait. Data were collected from 2023 to 2024. The sample included only Kuwaiti adults aged 18 and older.

Results

723 individuals participated in this study. The mean age was 36 years. Two-thirds of the participants were females. Almost two-thirds of respondents were both mindful of the association between sun exposure and skin aging and pigmentation, while minority reported no side effects. Thirty-nine percent of respondents were aware of the association between skin cancer and solar exposure. Females and lighter skin type demonstrated a higher level of using sunscreens. Only 27% of the participants were using sunscreens regularly and almost half of those who did not use it stated that it is not important to apply sunscreen.

Conclusion

Kuwaiti adults possessed a satisfactory awareness level regarding sun adverse effects. The utilization of sunscreen was inadequate, regardless of their awareness and education.