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Pol J Cosmetol 2023, 26(2): 109-112pl  Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practice towards the impact of UV radiation on the skin among nonmedical students in PolandAnna Kasielska-Trojan 1/, Daria Suszka 2/, Agata Szulia 1/, Bogusław Antoszewski 1/ 1/ Klinika Chirurgii Plastycznej, Rekonstrukcyjnej i Estetycznej II Katedry Chirurgii Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Łodzi 2/ Magistrantka Kliniki Chirurgii Plastycznej, Rekonstrukcyjnej i Estetycznej Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Łodzi Summary Introduction. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation constitutes a modest part of the total radiation emitted by the Sun, yet its influence on the human body, especially the skin, is remarkable. There are effective methods to curb negative consequences of UV exposure, the most important of which are limiting time spent in the sun and using sunscreen on a regular basis. The problem with implementation of these rules might lie in insufficient awareness related to perilous effects of excessive UV exposure among people with no professional links to healthcare. Aim. To analyze the level of knowledge concerning UV radiation effects on the skin among nonmedical students in Poland. Material and methods. We gathered data from students attending nonmedical universities in Poland. We administered a questionnaire to 166 people, 129 women and 37 men. The survey included a set of questions about the effects of UV radiation on the skin, methods to protect the skin from the sun, and sun exposure habits. Results. Most of the students agreed that UV radiation can cause damage to the skin. Almost all of the respondents considered the time of the day an important factor for sun safety, indicating hours between 1 pm and 3 pm as the most dangerous for sun bathing. Nearly half of the students reported using sunscreen all year round. The majority of the students were aware that sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours and other means of sunprotection are needed for effective sun protection. Even though most of them were familiar with the term photosensitivity, an equally large group struggled to identify particular substances causing light sensitivity of the skin. Conclusions. The analysis of students´ responses indicates they demonstrate a satisfying level of knowledge regarding the effects of UV radiation on the skin. The majority of the respondents are aware of effective sun protection rules, although many of them struggle to recognize agents causing photosensitivity. Key words: ultraviolet radiation, UV, sun protection, photosensitivity, skin cancer |