Assessment of Sunscreen Use and Sun Protection Practices Among Outdoor Workers in Ogun State

Background: Prolonged sun exposure among outdoor workers increases the risk of photodermatoses and skin malignancies, yet sun protection practices in the South West geopolitical zone of Nigeria are not well characterised. This study assesses sunscreen use and sun protection practices among outdoor workers in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 250 outdoor workers including road construction workers, street vendors, and farmers using convenience sampling. A pre-tested structured questionnaire assessed knowledge of sun hazards, sun protection behaviour, and barriers to protective practice. Results: Knowledge of the risks of ultraviolet radiation was low. Sunscreen use was negligible, with most workers relying on hats and clothing as the sole form of sun protection. Cost and unavailability of sunscreen were cited as the main barriers. Conclusion: Outdoor workers in Ogun State are exposed to significant ultraviolet radiation with minimal protective measures. Family medicine practitioners should integrate skin health counselling into occupational health services and advocate for affordable sun protection products within public health programmes. Keywords: sunscreen, sun protection, outdoor workers, Ogun State, photodermatosis