Sun-Exposure Habits and Sun Protection Practices of Collegiate Athletes

Abstract

Collegiate athletes participating in predominantly outdoor sporting events such as soccer, football, baseball, and lacrosse may be outside for up to 4 hours daily per National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) guidelines. An investigation into the skin protection practices of students and the resources provided by universities was conducted by direct anonymous polling of Ohio Division 1 athletes. Seventy-one percent of students reported sun exposure to be longer than 4 hours, 64% of students reported sunburns, 63% of students were not advised to wear protective attire, and 73% reported they were not instructed or reminded by their university to wear sunscreen with an SPF of ≥30 while outdoors. A strict adherence to NCAA guidelines, increased use of adequate sunscreen protection (≥30 SPF), and sun-protective attire with sufficient ultraviolet protection factor (>15) is needed to protect the long-term health of this population with extremely high levels of sun exposure annually.