METHODS: The relevant search terms were queried using the Google Trends® in each location and worldwide. The search volume indices were compared between locations and over a time period from January 1, 2004, to January 31, 2019. Correlations between "sunblock" and "sunburn" as well as "sunblock" and search terms relating to skin cancers ("skin cancer," "melanoma," "basal cell carcinoma," and "squamous cell carcinoma") were evaluated.
RESULTS: The favored search term relating to sun protection in this region was "sunblock" despite the term itself being a misnomer. The relative popularity of searches for "sunblock" also showed an increase over time and was generally higher compared with interest in sunburn, skin cancers, and artificial tanning practices. Positive correlations were noted between "sunblock" and "sunburn" in Malaysia and "sunblock" and "melanoma" in Singapore.
CONCLUSION: Insights into search trends may assist public health promotion to raise awareness regarding sun protection and skin cancers in the region by targeting commonly used terms for each geographical location.
METHODS: Skin phototype was determined using Fitzpatrick phototype quiz, DSMII ColorMeter measured skin colours, sun exposure quantified using an index (SEI) and phototest performed with MEDlight-Multitester.
RESULTS: A total of 167 healthy volunteers participated. There were 110 (66%) females and 56 (34%) males; 124 (74.7%) were Malay, 27 (16.3%) Chinese and 14 (8.4%) Indians. One hundred and nine (65.7%) skin phototype IV, 30 (18.1%) phototype III and 27 (16.3%) phototype V. IPDDA ranges from 6 ± 1.5-5.7 ± 1.4 J/cm2 . MED-UVB were 96.9 ± 17.6, 124 ± 29.3 and 118.6 ± 27.4 mJ/cm2 for phototype III, IV and V, respectively. All MED-UVA were outside the tested dose range of 3.6-11 J/cm2 . MMD-UVB were 106 ± 18.2, 134 ± 25.6 and 136 ± 31.1 mJ/cm2 while MMD-UVA were 4.1 ± 4.1, 4.9 ± 3.8 and 5.7 ± 3.7 J/cm2 respectively for phototypes III, IV and V. MED-UVB, MMD-UVB and MMD-UVA did not depend on skin phototype. Facultative skin whiteness (L*), erythema (E) and melanin content (M) correlated significantly with MED-UVB while constitutive skin colours were significant for L*, yellowness (b*), E and M. Sun exposure did not significantly correlate with MED-UVB and MMDs, however, an inverse relationship with MED-UVB was demonstrated.
CONCLUSION: Minimal erythema doses in our cohort were slightly different from other regional countries. Constitutive and facultative skin whiteness, erythema and melanin content correlated with MED. There was no association between skin phototype and sun exposure with MED or MMD.
METHODS: We disseminated an online questionnaire evaluating the use of sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and protective clothing during daytime hours in the cockpit and during outdoor activities to 346 global commercial airline pilots, and we received 220 completed responses. The Pearson chi-squared test or Fisher's exact test where necessary were used to determine possible factors associated with the use of sun-protective practices. Potential confounders were adjusted for using multivariate analyses.
RESULTS: The most common sun protective behaviour was the wearing of sunglasses during daytime flights (89.5%), followed by the use of caps during outdoor activities (47.7%). More pilots applied sunscreen during daytime flights (14.1%) compared with walk-arounds (8.2%). Males were less likely to use sunscreen during flights (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 0.76), use sunscreen for walk-arounds (aOR = 0.175) and wear long sleeves (aOR = 0.013). Pilots who flew less than 30 h a month in high latitude regions were less likely to use a cap or hat outdoors (aOR = 0.419) or use sunscreen during walk-arounds (aOR = 0.241). Younger pilots were also less likely to use caps or hats outdoors (aOR = 0.446).
CONCLUSION: Male pilots and those who spent less time in high latitudes were less likely to practice sun protection. Targeted educational efforts may be implemented to reduce occupational ultraviolet exposure.