Climatological global solar UV index: Measurement and health issues in Malta

Abstract

This study evaluated the knowledge, perceptions and behaviour of the Maltese population regarding ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure and sun protection attitudes. It also assessed whether the published Global Solar Ultraviolet Index (UVI) forecasts by the national local weather service are an accurate representation of the actual local UVR exposure. An analysis of long-term trends in the incidence of skin cancer in Malta was affected. This study revealed high local awareness levels in relation to UVI (96%), a relatively high familiarity with its significance (74%) and a relatively high follow-up of the published UVI forecasts during the summer months (72%). Notwithstanding this, 79% of the respondents claimed sun exposure during sun peak hours in summer. Furthermore worrying increasing trends in the reported cases of all skin cancer types over the past two decades were revealed. It was also established that 81% of locally published UVI forecasts were within ±1 UVI unit when compared to ground based integrated erythemally weighted ultraviolet radiation (UVER) data. This study demonstrated the importance for better focused sun protective campaigns and the relevance of a practical and easily communicable UVI concept using modern media applications so as to address the worrying situation of an ever-increasing trend in skin cancer incidence.