Occupational Sun Exposure and Skin Health Among Outdoor Farm Workers in Kebbi State

Prolonged occupational sun exposure is an often-overlooked occupational health risk in Nigerian agriculture, particularly in the hot and dry regions of the North West zone. This study examined occupational sun exposure patterns and associated skin health outcomes among outdoor farm workers in Kebbi State. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 160 farm workers in Birnin Kebbi and Argungu local government areas, using a structured questionnaire, skin examination by a trained health worker, and UV index measurements. Results showed that 91.3 percent of workers spent more than six hours daily under direct sunlight without any sun-protective measures. Dermatological findings included actinic keratosis in 24.4 percent, photoaging changes in 68.1 percent, and hyperpigmentation disorders in 49.4 percent of participants. Eye symptoms consistent with pterygium and photokeratitis were identified in 31.9 percent of respondents. Awareness of skin cancer risk from sun exposure was very low (8.8%), and use of sunscreen was virtually absent. The study underscores an emerging but neglected occupational health issue in Nigeria's agricultural workforce and recommends culturally appropriate sun protection education campaigns, distribution of affordable protective clothing and shade structures, and the integration of skin health screening into community health outreach programs for farm workers in Kebbi State. Keywords: sun exposure, skin health, farm workers, photoaging, Kebbi State.