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Protection against skin cancer: Study shows the need for action in sun protection
In this article, learn how important protection against UV radiation is and why it is necessary to protect yourself from skin cancer. Discover the results of a representative survey by the AOK federal association and learn what measures you can take to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Find out more about the regular use of sunscreen, the absence of long sun exposure and the offer of skin cancer screening. Take the chance to learn more about the common errors and ignorance in connection with sun protection and let our tips and advice inspire you to make conscious and healthy solar exposure. Also download further documents for the survey on aok.de.
Protection against skin cancer: Study shows the need for action in sun protection
UV radiation is the greatest risk factor for the development of skin cancer, which has increased steadily in Germany in recent years. This is shown by a current survey on behalf of the AOK federal association. A total of 81 percent of the more than 1,500 respondents stated that protection against solar radiation is important to them. In view of the increasing UV radiation due to climate, 69 percent of citizens would increase their sun protection measures. Nevertheless, the survey shows that many people still do not protect themselves sufficiently from the sun.
An important means of avoiding sun damage is the regular use of sunscreen and sprays with high sun protection factor. In spring and summer, however, just under two thirds of the respondents (65 percent) prevail. A gender difference is also evident: it is 72 percent for women, and only 58 percent for men. Around a quarter of the respondents (24 percent) only use sunscreens on special occasions such as vacation or in the outdoor pool. The absence of long stays in the sun and avoiding the midday sun are other important protective measures, which are only used by half or 41 percent of those surveyed. It is worrying that almost half of the population (48 percent) often forget to apply sunscreens.
Although 54 percent of those surveyed indicate that they are afraid of developing skin cancer, there is a clear need to catch up on the provision. So far, more than every four of the ages of 35 (28 percent) has not yet taken advantage of the skin cancer screening. A quarter of the respondents (26 percent) who have not yet used this control did not even know that there was this service. Experts indicate that regular check-ups are important to recognize skin cancer at an early stage. Legally insured persons aged 35 and over can have the skin cancer screening carried out every two years at the house or dermatologist.
The survey also shows that there are still many knowledge gaps and errors in relation to sun protection. For example, every fourth respondent (27 percent) thinks that he is adequately protected from sun by car windows and does not have to use sunscreen. Every fifth person (22 percent) wrongly believes that you are protected from sunburn in the shade. In addition, 49 percent of those surveyed still do not know what the sun protection factor means.
In order to strengthen the awareness of skin cancer and sun protection, the AOK federal association has adapted its insured communication accordingly and focuses on these topics.
The survey was carried out on behalf of the AOK Federal Association of Forsa. Between March 22nd and April 4, 2024, a total of 1,508 people aged 18 and over were interviewed online in Germany.
Source: AOK federal association/OTS