Prevalence and factors associated to actinic cheilitis in beach workers.

OBJECTIVES: Assess the prevalence and potential factors associated to actinic cheilitis (AC) in workers exposed to the sun.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Workers assigned to urban beaches in a city in Northeastern Brazil completed a questionnaire containing personal and health data. Lips were examined to identify AC.

RESULTS: A total of 362 workers, of which 15.5% exhibited AC, were examined. Among those with AC, there was a prevalence of males (86%), aged 37years or older (61.4%) and light-skinned (52.6%). They were undocumented (96.5%), exposed to the sun (84.2%), worked up to 6h daily (57.9%), five or more times per week (52.6%), and for more than 8years (54.4%). Photoprotection was used by 89.5%, including sunscreen (42.0%), lip protector (17.5%), and cap/hat (87.7%). Approximately 30% smoked and 29.8% consumed alcohol, 56.2% over two standard shots per day. Most (91.2%) ate healthy food five or more times per week. Being male, aged 37years or older, having up to 6years of schooling, being light-skinned, wearing a cap/hat, and using sunscreen were factors associated to AC.

CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of actinic AC was observed. Special attention should be given to individuals chronically exposed to UV radiation, with the institution of educational, preventive, and curative measures.