Sun Exposure Awareness and Sunscreen Use Among College Students in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
2024

Sun Exposure Awareness and Sunscreen Use Among College Students in Saudi Arabia

Sample size: 388 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Al Dhafiri Mahdi, Almulhim Nasser A, Alsuliman Mudhawi, Ashram Saif Y, Asiri Faisal, Alshanbari Sara, Alshreef Salma, Gommosani Rahaf, Fadel Maha, Alfajih Hanin A

Primary Institution: King Faisal University

Hypothesis

This study aimed to assess the awareness, attitudes, and practices regarding sun exposure and sunscreen use among college students in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

Despite awareness of the risks associated with excessive sun exposure, sunscreen use among college students in Saudi Arabia is inconsistent and influenced by various factors, including gender and education level.

Supporting Evidence

  • 80.6% of participants recognized sunburn as a consequence of excessive sun exposure.
  • 74.4% were aware of the risk of skin cancer from sun exposure.
  • 43.0% of participants had not received formal education on sun exposure dangers.
  • Males were significantly less likely to use sunscreen compared to females.
  • First-year students were less likely to use sunscreen regularly.

Takeaway

Many college students in Saudi Arabia know that too much sun can be bad for their skin, but not everyone uses sunscreen regularly.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 388 college students using a structured questionnaire to collect data on demographics, awareness, and practices related to sun exposure and sunscreen use.

Potential Biases

Self-reported data may lead to recall bias and social desirability bias.

Limitations

The study relies on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias, and is limited to college students, affecting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

The study included 53.9% females and 46.1% males, primarily aged 18-23 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Confidence Interval

95% CI = 7.46-45.86

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.7759/cureus.76146

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