Adolescent sun protection at secondary school athletic sporting events - a misnomer

Objective: To observe the sun-protective practices of students and staff and related aspects of the physical environment at secondary school athletics days. Methods: This observational study of 1,225 students and 215 adult supervisors examined the use of sun-protective items (hats, clothing coverage, sunglasses), sunscreen provision and shade. Results: Sun-protective behaviour was poor with only 3% of students and 25% of adult supervisors wearing a sun-protective hat. Shade was not available to most students, either as competitors or while waiting to compete. Sunscreen provision was 50%. Conclusion: Portable shade for students waiting to compete should be available at competitive events. Students should be encouraged to wear sun-protective hats and clothing while not competing and SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen should always be provided. Guidelines for adult supervisors should be developed so they role model appropriate sun protection.