Background

Transplant recipients are particularly prone to the development of skin cancer, and overexposure to UV radiation during outdoor activities increases the risk of carcinogenesis.

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze sun-related behaviors and knowledge in transplant athletes, examine the frequency of sunburns, and explore associations with a history of skin cancer.

Materials and methods

Cross-sectional descriptive study. Participants (n=170) in the XXI World Transplant Games from >50 countries completed a questionnaire on sun protection habits and knowledge, type of transplant, immunosuppressive therapy, and personal history of skin cancer.

Results

The most common transplanted organs were the kidney (n=79), the liver (n=33), and the heart (n=31). Overall, 61.3% of athletes had been doing sport for >15 years and 79.5% spent >1–2 hours a day outdoors. Fifteen % of athletes had a history of skin cancer. The prevalence of sunburn in the previous year was 28.9%, higher in athletes aged <50 years (37.2%); without a primary school education (58.3%), not taking cyclosporin (32.6%) and athletes who played basketball (75%). The main sun protection measures used were sunscreen (68.9%) and sunglasses (67.3%). Use of a hat or cap was the only measure significantly associated with a reduced prevalence of sunburn.

Conclusions

Despite high awareness that sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, sunburn was common in transplant athletes. Efforts should be made to strengthen multidisciplinary sun protection education strategies and ensure periodic dermatologic follow-up to prevent sun-induced skin cancer in this population.