Photodermatosis and Photo protection in Metropolitan Traffic Police in Kathmandu city

Background: Police officers are regarded as role model of discipline throughout the world. They serve a vital role in maintaining safety and harmony. During their duty, they are exposed to sun radiation which is non–intentional type sun exposure (NISE). The objective of our present study was to evaluate their knowledge and practice regarding ultra violet radiation, photo protection, sunscreens and sun- related photodermatosis. Methodology: Traffic police officers, working at different locations in Kathmandu, were included in this cross sectional study. They were asked to fill the structured questionnaires and then interviewed and examined by dermatologist to assess their knowledge, behaviour and practice in relation to ultra violet radiation and photoprotection. Result: Mean age of 265 respondents was 27.1 years. Respondent with graduation and post-graduation had knowledge and practice toward ultraviolet radiation, followed those with higher secondary education. Regarding the practice for photo protection, only 59.6% had knowledge about sunscreen, 39.6% had knowledge about ultraviolet radiation and 24.9% had knowledge about Ultra Violet Index .Similarly skin problems like melasma, premature wrinkles, and hardening of skin, polymorphic light eruption, burning foot syndrome, dermatophytes, and varicose vein were present. Conclusion: Traffic police officers showed good practices in term of wearing hat, clothes that cover most of the body parts but poor practice over sunscreen, ultraviolet radiation and ultraviolet index. Lectures & seminar regarding the awareness and photo protection practice should be recommended.