Ultraviolet exposure of competitors during a Tokyo Olympic Sailing Regatta Test Event

Abstract

Background: Overexposure to sunlight is the main cause of skin cancer. Photoprotection practices and sunburn play a crucial role in skin cancer prevention.Objectives: This study aimed to quantify the risk of sun exposure and to evaluate photoprotection practices in Spanish sailors during Olympic competitions.Methods: Solar daily ultraviolet (UV) radiation cycle, personal UV dosimetry, photoprotection practices and sunburn checking were followed during three consecutive days of competition among sailors from the Spanish Olympic Sailing Team during a Tokyo Olympic Regatta Test Event.Results: A total of 13 sailors (7 women), with mean age of 27.6 ± 4.7 years and sports experience of 17.7 ± 5.4 years, were studied. The most common phototypes were type III (53.8%) and type II (38.5%). The rate of sunburn checked was high (46.2%). The mean daily personal UV exposure received was 761.0 ± 263.6 J/m 2 , 3.0 ± 1.1 minimal erythemal dose and 7.6 ± 2.6 standard erythemal dose, seven times greater than the maximum permissible UV light exposure values for an 8 h working day. The use of a T-shirt was the most common practice (94.2%), followed by the use of shade (50.2%), hat/cap (44.0%), sunglasses (26.1%) and sunscreen (11.8%).Conclusions: Olympic sailor's studies presented high levels of UV radiation received, high rate of sunburn and insufficient adherence to sun-protective behaviours (especially, to use of sunscreen) to prevent sunburn, the main cause of skin cancer.Sport Federations should develop educational campaigns addressing sun-related exposure habits and photoprotection behaviours to reduce the risk of skin cancer among these athletes.

Skin Cancer Risk, Sun-Protection Knowledge and Behavior in Athletes—A Narrative Review

“…Surprisingly, 46.2% of participants experienced at least one sunburn during a relatively short period, and 23.1% had at least three sunburns. Only 11.8% of competitors used sunscreen cream frequently [ 49 ].…”

Cyan Moon Crew Preparation for the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

“…Lastly, a key preparation component not currently available in the four co-active model of athlete preparation was safety. This new domain explored sun exposure, temperature exposure and first aid training as key factors to consider for competitive sailors (Forbes, 2020;Gutierrez-Manzanedo et al;Neville et al, 2010).…”

Skin cancer prevention in extreme sports: Intervention in a 24‐h race

“…11,12 In light of the growing popularity of outdoor sports as entertainment, there has been increased interest in evaluating the sun exposure these athletes are exposed to during competitions and training 13 as well as their habits, attitudes, and knowledge regarding sun protection. 14,15 Publications to date demonstrate that athletes are exposed to high rates of ultraviolet (UV) radiation 16,17 and have very deficient photoprotective habits. 18,19 Therefore, there is a need for novel interventions in this vulnerable population.…”