Skin cancer protective behaviors among welders of west of Iran: Importance of access to protective equipment

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Welders are normally at risk of skin cancer due to continuous contact with natural ultraviolet rays and welding radiation. Protective behaviors against the radiations are the most fundamental measures taken to prevent skin cancer in these individuals. AIMS: This research aimed to evaluate the factors affecting the protective behaviors in welders. PATIENTS/METHODS: In this cross-sectional research, participants were selected by the census method, and the research tool was a reliable and valid questionnaire filled by 154 welders in Yasuj, Iran. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 16 using ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and independent t test. RESULTS: The highest age frequency was related to the age-group of 36-45 years, and the highest frequency of work experience was less than 10 years. In terms of the level of education, most welders had a diploma or a higher degree. In addition, most behaviors reported included using gloves, whereas the least applied method was using sunscreen cream, the most important cause of which was the high cost of the cream. In this regard, the Pearson's correlation coefficient demonstrated a negative association between skin cancer and job difficulty. In addition, performing of protective behaviors decreased in the target group by aging. CONCLUSION: Given the unfavorable mean skin cancer protective behaviors in the welders, it is recommended that interventions, such as planned education, access to protective tools, and periodic skin examinations by a physician, be carried out to promote the health of these individuals and facilitate performing protective behaviors.