RESEARCH PAPER
Health-promoting and anti-health behaviours of workers exposed to solar radiation
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1
Department of Nutrition and Epidemiology, Medical University of Łódź, Polska
2
Department of Nutrition and Epidemiology, Medical University of Łódź
3
Profamilia Medical Center
Corresponding author
Anna Garus-Pakowska
Zakład Żywienia i Epidemiologii, Uniwersytet Medyczny w Łodzi, ul Żeligowskiego 7/9, Łódź, Polska
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ABSTRACT
Introduction and objective:
Occupational exposure to solar radiation is a risk factor for skin diseases. Personal protective equipment and individual behaviours of those occupationally exposed to UV radiation are important preventative measures. The aim of this study was to assess health-related behaviours of workers exposed to solar radiation.
Material and methods:
The study included 330 individuals exposed to solar radiation at work. A questionnaire was used to
collect data on health-promoting and anti-health behaviours. Individuals with suspicious skin lesions were referred for dermatological examinations. Pearson‘s chi-square test or Fisher‘s exact test were used for selected variables, and the p values p < 0.05 were considered significant.
Results:
Females more often than males used sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection (p<0.05). Despite occupational exposure, 125 people admitted they did not limit their sun exposure. The majority of respondents did not know the number of moles on their bodies, had never performed a skin
self-examination, and had never had their moles checked by a dermatologist. One in four respondent had a suspicious lesion detected that required further consultation with a doctor, and 10 participants had a lesion that was cancerous.
Conclusions:
The study found that most respondents did not demonstrate sufficient health-promoting behaviours
and emphasized the importance of access to screening tests. Education about the risks associated with UV exposure and participation in screening tests are of key importance and may result in the reduction of skin cancer rates, increase detection rates, and improve treatment outcomes.
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