Knowledge and the behavioral patterns of photoprotection among Koreans with skin disease

Background: Photoprotection is crucial in preventing the development and progression of various skin diseases. However, patients with skin disease have limited awareness of photoprotection. We evaluated the knowledge and behavioral patterns of photoprotection among Koreans with skin diseases. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 11 general hospitals across South Korea. The study population consisted of patients aged 19 years or older who visited dermatologic clinics for their skin diseases. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect patient demographics, knowledge of photoprotection, and photoprotective habits. Results: In this study, 1173 patients with skin cancer, hyperpigmentary disorders, hypopigmentary disorders, or other skin diseases participated. Females scored significantly higher in knowledge of photoprotection compared to males (mean score 8.4 vs. 7.8; p <.001), and younger patients (<50 years) scored higher than older patients (mean score 8.7 vs. 7.5; p <.001). Males also reported longer sun exposure times and lower usage of photoprotective measures (both p <.001). Patients with skin cancer had the lowest mean knowledge score (7.1 ± 2.6) and were less likely to use photoprotective measures compared to other groups (p <.001). In contrast, patients with hyperpigmentation actively avoided sun exposure compared with other groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Knowledge of photoprotection among Korean patients with skin diseases varied depending on the gender, age, and type of skin disease. Their photoprotective behaviors were inadequate, especially among males and those with skin cancer. These findings emphasize the importance of educating and tailoring photoprotection strategies for patients with skin diseases.