Dermatology Patients’ Knowledge of Sunscreen Guidelines at a University Hospital in Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of dermatology patients regarding sunscreen use as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. METHODS: This was an observational cross-sectional study at a university hospital in Riyadh. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire to measure their knowledge and attitude regarding sunscreen use. Results were analyzed using a chi-square test. RESULTS: Most participants heard about sunscreen (93.4%) and had indicated previous sunscreen use (72%). Sunscreen use was higher among women and participants with a postgraduate education. Sunscreen knowledge was higher among women, participants with non-photosensitive disorders, and participants with Fitzpatrick I, II, and III skin types. A total of 80% knew the worst time for sun exposure, but only 20.5% of the participants knew that sunscreen should be applied daily throughout the year, and 13.5% knew the correct minimum recommended SPF. A total of 34% were aware of the minimum time allowed for sunscreen application before sun exposure, and 20% were aware of the longest period allowed between reapplications. Only 4.5% knew the proper amount of sunscreen to cover the entire body. CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that most participants had heard of sunscreen, however their knowledge of the guidelines for sunscreen use was poor. Only 33% of the participants had received a recommendation for using sunscreen from their general practitioner or dermatologist. More comprehensive and directed efforts need to be made in counselling and educating these patients on proper sunscreen practice.