Sun-protection and sun-exposure habits among sailors: results of the 2018 world's largest sailing race Barcolana’ skin cancer prevention campaign

Background: Epidemiologic data suggest an increased risk of melanoma (MM) and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in persons with intense recreational sun-exposure such as marathon runners or surfers. Up to data little is known about the sun-exposure habits, sun-protection behaviours and risk factors for MM and NMSC among sailors. Objective: The objective of this prospective, cross-sectional study was to investigate the sun-exposure and sun-protective habits and risk factors for skin cancer among sailors attending the 50° edition of Barcolana, the largest sailing race in of the world, which took place in October 2018 in Trieste, Italy as an integrative component of a public sun-prevention campaign. Methods: The study consisted of 2 parts: (i) a self-administered questionnaire focusing on sun-exposure and protective habits and (ii) a free skin examination carried out by volunteer dermatologists. Participation was optional and anonymous, and open to visitors and sailors attending the event. Results: Overall, 431 (52.4%) sailors and 391 (47.6%) visitors responded to the questionnaire, while a total of 437 individuals including 189 (43.3%) sailors and 248 (56.6%) visitors participated in the skin examination group. The majority of sailors reported a past history of severe sunburns (20.2%), applied sunscreen never (14.4%) to sometimes (45.7%) or only once daily (59%) on the face (55%) and shoulders (26%). Moreover, 14% of sailors had a personal history of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). During the dermatological examination, suspicious lesions for skin cancer (including MM and NMSC) were identified in 37% of the sailors. Conclusion: Our findings support the need to develop and promote primary and secondary prevention strategies to improve the sun-exposure and sun-protective habits among sailors.