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Transmittance spectra of the four fabrics designed for UV protection tested in this study (orange and purple lines) compared to “normal” clothing items tested by Coyne, et al. (gray lines). The data from Coyne, et al. were digitized, converted to transmittance and represent the average of the 16 measurements as reported in the original study. White cotton and dark grey cotton were GAP, Inc. 100% cotton shirts. The denim was 69% cotton, 30% polyester, 1% spandex GAP jeans. Polyester refers to a 84% polyester, 16% spandex Coolibar rash guard [71].
Source publication
Simple Summary
Photoprotection reduces invasive melanoma incidence and mortality, but not all sun protection modalities are created equal. Dermatologists have long debated the pros and cons of photoprotective clothing and sunscreen, but few studies compare the effectiveness of these two modalities head-to-head. This study uses both in vitro and in...
Citations
... Persönliche Schutzmaßnahmen umfassen das Tragen von geeigneter Kleidung, Kopfbedeckungen sowie Sonnenbrillen und die Nutzung von Sonnenschutzmitteln. Diese Maßnahmen sollten jeweils an die spezifischen Gegebenheiten der Arbeitsumgebung angepasst werden. Bei den personenbezogenen Schutzmaßnahmen ist das Tragen von langer Kleidung eine der effektivsten Schutzmaßnahmen gegen solare UV-Strahlung [13][14][15]. ...
Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Die Gefährdung durch solare UV-Strahlung betrifft vor allen Dingen Beschäftigte, die im Freien arbeiten. Dabei ist das Risikobewusstsein der Betroffenen sowie die Bereitschaft zur Anwendung von Schutzmaßnahmen nach wie vor gering, was den Arbeitsschutz weiterhin vor große Herausforderungen stellt.
Material und Methoden
Im Rahmen von Tragetests von UV-Schutzkleidung in verschiedenen Branchen des Verkehrssektors wurde das Sonnenschutzverhalten der Teilnehmenden vor und nach dem Test untersucht. Weiterhin wurde der Tragekomfort in der Praxis mittels Fragebögen evaluiert. An den Tragetests beteiligten sich insgesamt 137 Personen. Davon beantworteten 119 Personen die Fragebögen. Ergänzend dazu wurde die Schutzwirkung von ausgewählter UV-Schutzkleidung (n = 13) messtechnisch an 39 Materialproben überprüft.
Ergebnisse
Die Auswertung der Fragebögen zeigte, dass 18 % der Teilnehmenden aus den verschiedenen Branchen des Verkehrssektors (n = 104) keinen Sonnenschutz bei der Arbeit verwendeten, während sich die Referenzgruppe (n = 15) grundsätzlich vor solarer UV-Strahlung schützte. Vor dem Tragetest trugen bereits 11 % aller Teilnehmenden (n = 119, einschließlich der Referenzgruppe) lange Kleidung bei der Arbeit im Freien. Nach dem Tragetest erhöhte sich dieser Anteil auf 47 %. Im Vergleich zur üblichen Arbeitskleidung wurde UV-Schutzkleidung grundsätzlich positiv bewertet. In Hinblick auf den vom Hersteller deklarierten UV-Schutz der Kleidung, konnte ein Großteil den angegebenen Schutz bereits im Neuzustand einhalten. Bei einigen Modellen wurde der angegebene Schutzfaktor erst nach mehrmaligem Waschen erreicht.
Diskussion
Im Rahmen der Tragetests zeigte sich, dass die Akzeptanz für UV-Schutzkleidung durch Beteiligung der Beschäftigten am Entscheidungs- und Auswahlprozess deutlich erhöht werden kann. Dazu sollten vor der Beschaffung ggf. mehrere Modelle zur Auswahl stehen. Dabei bietet die auf dem Markt erhältliche UV-Schutzkleidung in der Regel einen zuverlässigen Schutz. In diesem Zusammenhang legt die Information der Beschäftigten über die mögliche Gefährdung den Grundstein für das weitere Vorgehen. Aufklärung und Wissensvermittlung stellen eine essenzielle Komponente in Hinblick auf die Primärprävention UV-induzierter Schädigungen dar.
... Sunscreens work by forming a protective layer on the skin's surface capable of absorbing, reflecting, or scattering UV radiation, thereby reducing the amount of radiation that penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin. The effectiveness of sunscreen in protecting the skin from UVB radiation is measured by the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value, which simply indicates how much longer a person can be exposed to sunlight without experiencing redness compared to unprotected skin (Berry et al., 2022;Chauhan et al., 2023;Diffey et al., 2017;González et al., 2022;Sayre et al., 1979). ...
This research aimed to determine the in vitro Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value of sunscreen formulations containing vetiver essential oil (Vetiveria zizanioides) at various concentrations. Vetiver essential oil is known to possess various biological activities, including potential as a UV protective agent. Oil-in-water emulsion-based sunscreen formulations were prepared with varying concentrations of vetiver essential oil (1%, 3%, and 5% v/v). The SPF value was determined spectrophotometrically using the in vitro method. The physicochemical characteristics of the formulations (viscosity and pH) were also evaluated. The results showed that the addition of vetiver essential oil tended to significantly increase the SPF value of the sunscreen formulations with increasing concentration. The formulation with a 5% concentration of vetiver essential oil exhibited the highest SPF value. The physicochemical characteristics of the formulations were still within the acceptable range for topical preparations. This research indicates the potential of vetiver essential oil as a natural UV protective agent in sunscreen formulations.
... Furthermore, UPF-rated clothing may incur extra production costs that limit its availability; the cost of UPF testing, the cost of photoprotective fabrics, and costs associated with quality control measures in the production of photoprotective fabrics [8]. Prior head-to-head studies of UV protective clothing to sunscreen have indicated that clothing should be considered the cornerstone of UV protection [9]. Public health campaigns may provide a potential solution to target this public health concern, placing emphasis on UPF-rated clothing as an essential ...
... This paper examines the effects of UV radiation on people, the requirements for UV protection, and the guidelines for determining UPF. According to the author [22], exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the primary risk factor for skin cancer. In one study, broad-spectrum sunscreens and sun-protective textiles were tested for their ability to block UV rays. ...
The global analysis of the apparel market focuses on the supply and demand for UV protection clothing, acknowledging the paramount importance of shielding against solar UV radiation, which is the primary cause of skin damage, including skin cancer. Reports indicate a limited presence of UPF apparel in the Asian market. However, it is anticipated that the UPF clothing business will undergo development in Asian countries in the foreseeable future. This study delves explicitly into the availability of UV-protective clothing in India, with a focus on the Chennai market. Through a convenient sampling method, the research scrutinized 80 brands across physical and online retail outlets, unveiling trends such as the prevalence of knitted fabrics and type of fibres, premium pricing, and the potential for Indian brands to diversify and align with global preferences. This comprehensive analysis is poised to deliver substantial value to clothing manufacturers, consumers, researchers, and academia.
... For high and medium-incidence groups, these efforts should focus on reducing the duration of recreational sun exposure with sun-protective clothing as opposed to relying only on sunscreen, which perpetuates the sunscreen paradox [1]. Sun-protective clothing with a UV protection factor > 50 is more effective in preventing sunburn and ensuring safe sun exposure [41]. The authors' findings suggest that efforts to limit outdoor activity during peak UV exposure hours may not be supported by social norms, especially in societies where physical activity plays an important role. ...
The role sun filters in cosmetics that protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation is to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate a paradoxical increase in sunlight-induced skin cancer, which is referred to as the “sunscreen paradox.” The study aimed to provide an answer to the question regarding the factors that contribute to this phenomenon and whether the legitimacy of sunscreen use will be doubtful in light of such results. An analysis of the current literature was conducted. The obtained results were surprisingly unexpected, which prompted the author to undertake further research and an indepth analysis of the results based on available sources. This is due to the possibility that the need for sunscreen could be questioned.
... The effectiveness of sunscreen protection is described by and indicator called sun protection factor (SPF) and it represents the ratio of energy required to produce a minimal erythema dose (reddening of the skin) through the sunscreen compared to the energy required to produce the same reaction without the sunscreen. For example, if someone would normally get a sunburn in 10 minutes without sunscreen protection, applying sunscreen with an SPF30 would mean that it would take 300 minutes (5 hours) to observe reddening of skin [84]. It is highly important to mention that a sunscreen with a higher SPF will provide a higher protection, however it does not mean longer exposure to sun [81]. ...
... While sunscreen products are a necessary tool in skin protection from UVA and UVB radiation, it should not be relied upon as the only protective measure [80]. More specifically, individuals have to be informed for other sun protection measures such as shady places, protective clothing and sun avoidance in peak hours [84]. However, it is suggested that people should use combined protective measures. ...
... Physical protection can be accomplished by using proper clothing for example long-sleeved shirts, and clothes made with bi-layer knitted fabrics [89,90]. According to [84], the degree of protection by proper clothing depends on color, material, fiber, yarn and fabric structure which is referred as one of the most important factors based on its porosity. ...
Skin cancer remains a significant public health concern, with rising incidence rates worldwide. Our literature review examines current knowledge on skin cancer prevention, focusing on key areas such as epidemiology, risk factors, ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, pathophysiological and genetic mechanisms, and prevention strategies. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on peer-reviewed articles published from 2013 to 2023. Non-peer-reviewed articles, non-English studies, non-human research, and studies published before 2013 were excluded. Our study highlights the significant role of UV radiation in skin cancer pathogenesis and underscores the importance of comprehensive prevention strategies. Sunscreen use and protective behaviors are effective but underutilized. Community-based interventions show promise in increasing public awareness and promoting protective measures. Screening and chemoprevention offer additional avenues for reducing skin cancer burden. The findings emphasize the need for continued public health efforts to enhance skin cancer prevention and early detection. Future research should focus on optimizing prevention strategies and exploring novel approaches to reduce the incidence of skin cancer.
... Since clothing is the easiest way of guarding the body against UV radiation, market demand for garments providing ultraviolet (UV) protection is growing rapidly [2]. A study comparing the defensive effect of four sun-protective textiles and two broad-spectrum organic sunscreens was conducted by Berry et al. [3]. Each fabric was found superior to both sunscreens. ...
Lately, being physically active has become a priority of daily life. Despite that outdoor sports boost an individual’s mental and physical health, it also generates the problem of ultraviolet light exposure. Clothes provide the wearer protection from the sun, but they are also damaged while completing this task. Therefore, the impact of ultraviolet aging on swimwear fabric, which is the most exposed type of garment to the sunrays, was investigated in this study. Changes in breaking force, elongation at break, air permeability, fabric elasticity and stiffness, and dimensional characteristics were examined after 120 and 240 h of artificial weathering, together with scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The influence of seawater treatment was explored as well. The results presented that breaking force, elongation at break, fabric elasticity and stiffness, and air permeability were dramatically influenced by ultraviolet exposure. No chemical destruction was observed in FTIR spectra, while micro-damages were detected in SEM images. Furthermore, it was concluded that the main detrimental parameter was UV radiation, and the effect of seawater treatment was usually found to be minimal or not distinctive. Due to the limited number of research on the impact of UV aging on warp-knitted swimwear, this study is expected to contribute to the related literature.
... Clothing has been designed with an ultraviolet protective factor (UPF) up to 50, indicating what fraction of the sun's UV rays (1/50) can penetrate the fabric [16,17]. In contrast, a standard white cotton T-shirt has a UPF of 5. ...
... This study noted that individuals from regions with higher CM incidence tended to use sunscreen and sun-protective clothing more commonly than individuals from low-CM-incidence regions but were similar in their tendency to seek shade. Interestingly, quantitative studies have shown that the use of sun-protective clothing and avoidance of the sun may confer greater photoprotection than sunscreen [34][35][36]. The preference for wearing sunscreen in high-versus low-CM-incidence provinces may contribute to lower overall sun protection received. ...
... For the highand average-incidence groups, it may be valuable to focus on a reduction in recreational sun exposure with the use of sun-protective clothing as opposed to mostly relying on sunscreen, which perpetuates the "sunscreen paradox". Sun-protective UPF > 50 clothing has shown greater efficacy in preventing sunburns and providing reliable sun exposure [36]. Based on our findings and interviews, efforts to limit outdoor activities in NS/PEI may not receive support based on community norms. ...
Globally, cutaneous melanoma (CM) incidence is increasing, with sun exposure identified as a key modifiable risk factor. The Atlantic provinces of Canada display varied CM incidence rates: New Brunswick aligns with the national average, while Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island exceed it, and Newfoundland and Labrador fall below this benchmark. We investigated the relationship between sun exposure and CM in these provinces. Twenty-two focus groups encompassing 95 Atlantic Canada residents were conducted and transcribed. A thematic analysis was conducted in MAXQDA using the social–ecological model as a framework. Residents of high-CM incidence provinces demonstrated greater sun exposure awareness, consulting UV indices, and using sunscreen and sun-protective clothing. However, they received greater UV exposure due to warmer climates and outdoor work and cultural activities. Conversely, those in low-incidence provinces used sunscreen and sun-protective clothing less often, engaged in occupations and hobbies affording less sun exposure, and lived in cooler climates. Our data supports a possible “sunscreen paradox”, whereby increased sunscreen use is correlated with augmented sun exposure, leading to a deceptive sense of security. Public health initiatives in Atlantic Canada promoting sun safety must address this paradox while integrating community-specific behaviors and norms in order to develop tailored campaigns.
... Wearing protective clothing was the second lowest reported sun protection method among adolescents and the least popular behaviour among adults, which is concerning. Covering the skin with clothing has been proposed as an important sun protection strategy and might potentially be more effective than hat-wearing or sunscreen use in preventing skin damage [23,[47][48][49]. Since clothing is subject to changes in fashion and protective clothing might be perceived as uncomfortable or inconvenient, demonstrations of role models that are covering up with comfortable and wearable clothing might be effective in sun protection campaigns [49][50][51]. ...
The major cause for skin cancer is the excessive and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which can be prevented by engaging in sun protection behaviours. As longitudinal studies on both adolescents’ and adults’ performances of sun protection behaviours are limited, the current study aimed to investigate changes in sun protection in these population segments in Western Australia, a region with high annual UVR. During six summer seasons (2015/16 to 2020/21), cross-sectional surveys were conducted among 1806 adolescents (14 to 17 years old) and 1808 adults (18–45 years old), investigating the frequency of five sun protection behaviours (wearing clothing, applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, wearing sunglasses, and seeking shade) and sun avoidance (staying indoors). Over the six-year period, staying indoors increased in both groups. Among adolescents, a decrease in wearing clothing and sunglasses and an increase in seeking shade was demonstrated, and hat and sunscreen use remained relatively stable. Among adults, an increase in sunscreen use was shown, whereas all other sun-related behaviours remained consistent over the six-year period. The results from this study can provide directions for health communications focusing on improving sun protection behaviours among both adolescent and adult populations.
