Conocimientos, actitudes y hábitos de fotoprotección en estudiantes de la Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Azogues – Ecuador. 2024

Abstract

Background: At the Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues campus, there are no previous studies on knowledge, attitudes, and habits regarding sun protection, despite the high exposure to UV radiation in the region, which highlights the need for research to promote effective prevention of sun damage. Objective: To determine the knowledge, attitudes, and habits related to sun protection among students at the Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues, Ecuador, 2024. Methodology: An observational, prospective, and cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted at the Azogues campus between March and August, 2024. A total of 345 students were selected through stratified random sampling according to age, sex, and academic program. Participants completed an adapted and validated version of the “CHACES Questionnaire.” Data were analyzed using SPSS version 2.0. Results: The sample included 345 students with an average age of 20.7 years, mostly women (58%). Of the participants, 59.42% demonstrated an intermediate level of knowledge about sun protection, while only 1.45% had a high level, with no significant differences by gender. Also, 52.5% rejected tanning, and 39.7% showed high awareness of sunscreen use. Among the other aspects, 48.7% reported regular sunscreen use, although other measures such as appropriate clothing and eye protection were less common. Conclusions: A high percentage of students have intermediate knowledge about sun protection. Although sunscreen use was common, other preventive measures such as appropriate clothing and eye protection were less frequently practiced. The relevance of this study lies in identifying gaps in knowledge and practices related to sun protection and in the need to implement effective preventive strategies in this population. Keywords: knowledge, attitudes and practices, university students, sun protection, UV radiation