UV exposure, preventive habits, risk perception, and occupation in NMSC patients: A case-control study in Trieste (NE Italy)

Background UV exposure is strongly associated with the incidence of non melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), both basal and squamous cell carcinomas. The aim of our study was to analyze risk perception, UV exposure, preventive habits, and occupation in 126 subjects affected by NMSC and 187 controls. Methods Consecutive cases with incident NMSC were recruited in Dermatologic Unit at University of Trieste; controls were recruited in Unit of Occupational Medicine. All had a medical examination to define Fitzpatrick skin type and skin lesions, and filled a standardized questionnaire on sun exposure habits, sun protection, occupational exposures, and sunburns in adulthood and childhood. Results In multivariate regression analysis, NMSC resulted significantly associated with age (OR: 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.05), with a positive feeling for tan (OR: 1.10; 95% CI 1.01-1.20), and sunbath numbers per year (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.001-1.03). A protective effect was demonstrated for Fitzpatrick phototypes III-IV compared to I and II (OR: 0.31; 95% CI: 0.18-0.55), sunscreen use (OR: 0.35; 95% CI: 0.22-0.58), and risk perception (OR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97-0.99). In univariate analysis, we demonstrated an increased risk for fishermen, sailors, and lifeguards (OR: 4.3; 95% CI: 1.1-16.4); foundry and metallurgy workers (OR: 5.58; 95% CI: 1.14-27.3); and mechanics, fixers, and welders (OR: 8.2; 95% CI: 1.76-37.9). Conclusions Our study demonstrated that protective behavior must be implemented in people living in Trieste. Workers must avoid direct UV exposure and must use protective equipment. More efforts are needed to increase knowledge on this risk and to raise awareness among at-risk people.