[Knowledge and attitudes of Mexican population concerning solar radiation].

Background: The effects of solar radiation in human health is dependent upon environment, behavior, and genetic characteristics.

Objective: Identify phenotypic features, attitudes, knowledge and preventive measures concerning sun exposure among a local population.

Methods: People older than 15 years were interviewed concerning time of sun exposure, photoprotection, and general knowledge about adverse effects of sun irradiation.

Results: 964 questionnaires were analyzed. White-skin population represented 7.4%, light-brown 24.8%, dark-brown 67.8%. Exposure time on working days was up to 15 min in 27.8%, and more than 60 min in 38.8%. On weekends, time exposure was similar. 30% did not take any preventive measures 41% wore hats and 11.8% used sunscreens. Among participants, 85.4% were aware that sun exposure caused skin cancer, 64. 1% knew that mortality is increased, 83.4% reported that excessive sun exposure is related to aging of the skin, and 26.5% believed tanning is healthy.

Conclusions: In spite of thefact that a great majority of the population recognized that sun exposure produces aging and skin cancer, their exposure is widespread. This survey may be a valuable tool to design preventive public health campaigns that target high risk groups.