Sun exposure and protection habits in transplant athletes: an international survey

Abstract

Background Transplant recipients are particularly prone to the development of skin cancer, and overexposure to UV radiation during outdoor activities increases the risk of carcinogenesis. Objective The aim of this study was to analyze sun-related behaviors and knowledge in transplant athletes, examine the frequency of sunburns, and explore associations with a history of skin cancer. Materials and methods Cross-sectional descriptive study. Participants (n = 170) in the XXI World Transplant Games from >50 countries completed a questionnaire on sun protection habits and knowledge, type of transplant, immunosuppressive therapy, and personal history of skin cancer. Results The most common transplanted organs were the kidney (n = 79), the liver (n = 33), and the heart (n = 31). Overall, 61.3% of athletes had been doing sport for >15 years and 79.5% spent >1-2 h a day outdoors. Fifteen % of athletes had a history of skin cancer. The prevalence of sunburn in the previous year was 28.9%, higher in athletes aged 50 countries completed a questionnaire on sun protection habits and knowledge, type of transplant, immunosuppressive therapy, and personal history of skin cancer. Results The most common transplanted organs were the kidney (n = 79), the liver (n = 33), and the heart (n = 31). Overall, 61.3% of athletes had been doing sport for >15 years and 79.5% spent >1-2 h a day outdoors. Fifteen % of athletes had a history of skin cancer. The prevalence of sunburn in the previous year was 28.9%, higher in athletes aged 15 years and 79.5% spent >1-2 h a day outdoors. Fifteen % of athletes had a history of skin cancer. The prevalence of sunburn in the previous year was 28.9%, higher in athletes aged 1-2 h a day outdoors. Fifteen % of athletes had a history of skin cancer. The prevalence of sunburn in the previous year was 28.9%, higher in athletes aged