Epidemiology

The incidence of skin cancer is increasing worldwide. A review of sun protection knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour in Australia showed that these were similar to those seen in other countries. Thus, young children's behaviours are largely influenced by that of their parents and many remain unprotected.[2] For example, in Sweden, 20% of toddlers had been severely sunburned at least once.[3] Adolescents had the lowest skin protection rates of all age groups.[2] In New Zealand, the proportion of adolescents who reported getting sunburned increased significantly from 1991 to 1997 and significant decreases in use of sun protection have also been reported in Australian and Dutch teens, although those most prone to burning do appear to be modifying their behaviour.[4]​[5][6]​​​​ Sunburn is very common in the US, and its prevalence is increasing.[7] Nearly 40% of respondents in one large adult population-based survey had experienced at least one episode of sunburn in the previous year, and almost 10% had 4 or more sunburns. A history of sunburn was highest (61%) among 18- to 24-year-olds and lowest (6%) in those 75 years of age or older. Higher socioeconomic and educational levels were positively associated with sunburn.[8] A 2019 US-based survey study also found that non-Hispanic white people and those with higher income were more likely to report sunburn.[9]​ Data from the National Cancer Institute show that in 2021, 64% of adolescents (age 14 to 18 years) surveyed reported at least one episode of sunburn in the past year, compared to 29% of adults in 2020.[10]​ Although prevalence is highest among Fitzpatrick skin types I to III, affecting approximately two-thirds of white men and women aged 18-29 years, sunburn also occurs in traditionally lower-risk racial/ethnic populations (skin types IV to V), with a 9% and 13% prevalence of sunburn in non-Hispanic black men and women aged 18-29 years, respectively.[7]​ Over 33,000 people in the US are admitted to the accident and emergency department each year for sunburn.[10]

In the UK, a 2021 survey found that 29% of adults reported at least one episode of sunburn in the past year.[11]

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