Sun Exposure of Outdoor Workers in Mayotte and Reunion Island

Overview

The UV index in Mayotte and Reunion is greater than 14, eight months out of twelve. This index decreases linearly over the period from mid-April to mid-August where it can drop to reach an index of 8 in July. The inhabitants are therefore exposed to a maximum intensity of UV radiation according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO recommends extreme precautions for indices greater than 11 (avoid exposure between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. (GMT+3 hours), stay in the shade, wear a t-shirt, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen). Sun exposure is a major risk factor in the development of skin cancer, basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer and cutaneous melanoma. It is also the cause of premature aging of the skin. Furthermore, it causes ocular complications such as the occurrence of cataracts and this without distinction of skin phenotype. There is currently no prevention campaign on the risks of sun exposure in Mayotte or Reunion for adults, while many risky behaviors are observed both in the professional field and during leisure activities. In order to better understand risk-taking and choose appropriate awareness-raising tools, it is necessary to identify the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of these populations in terms of risk of sun exposure and to measure the impact of solar prevention education actions.

Conditions