Knowledge and attitudes of family doctors, dermatologists, and endocrinologists on sun exposure and vitamin D

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Vitamin D is an important component of bone metabolism. Skin cells synthesize vitamin D when exposed to the sun. However, prolonged sun exposure damages the skin and increases the risk for skin cancer. The objective is to evaluate and compare the attitudes and recommendations of family doctors, dermatologists, and endocrinologists on exposure to the sun and vitamin D.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was completed by personal interview in a study population of 78 family doctors, 21 dermatologists, and 22 endocrinologists.

Results: On a scale of 1–10, the mean score for recommendations to reduce sun exposure was 4.7 for dermatologists, 4.2 for endocrinologists, and 6.4 for family doctors (p < 0.001). Family doctors recommended a mean daily exposure to the sun of 67.4 min compared to 41.4 by dermatologists, and 47.1 by endocrinologists (p = 0.007). Dermatologists and endocrinologists were more likely to recommend protective measures such as hats and long sleeves during sun exposure than family doctors (p < 0.0001). There were no statistically significant differences between male and female doctors for the entire study population.

Conclusions: There is little consensus among these medical practitioners, whether specialists or primary care doctors, concerning sun exposure. Further studies should evaluate the optimal duration and intensity of sun exposure and doctors’ recommendations should be based on the findings.

KEYWORDS:

• Family doctors
• sun exposure
• vitamin D
• endocrinologists
• dermatologists

Acknowledgments

None reported.

Declaration of interest

The authors have disclosed that they have no significant relationships with or financial interests in any commercial companies related to this study or article. Postgraduate Medicine peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This manuscript was not funded.

Notes on contributors

Arif Abu-Abed

Arif Abu-Abed, MD: A resident at the Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel. Physician at Clalit Health Services, Southern District, Israel.

Said Azbarga

Said Azbarga, MD: A resident at the Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel. Physician at Macabi Health Services, Southern District, Israel.

Roni Peleg

Roni Peleg, MD: Professor at the Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel. Physician at Clalit Health Services, Southern District, Israel