Personal UVR exposure of farming families in four European countries

•This is the first study comparing UVR exposure of farming families across Europe.•Farmers' UVR exposure was comparable to that of outdoor workers in previous studies.•European farmers exceeded the UVR exposure limits on up to 56% of their working days.•Our results indicate a stronger sun-seeking attitude among participants at higher latitudes.

BackgroundThe main risk factor for skin cancer is ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Farming families living in rural areas with easy outdoor access may experience excessive UVR exposure. Differences between countries in latitude, altitude and sun behaviour could result in different personal UVR exposures. However, no studies have examined this until now.ObjectivesTo determine personal UVR exposure in work and leisure situations among farming families in Europe.MethodsProspective cohort study of farmers, their partners (spouses) and children in Denmark (DK), Poland (PL), Austria (AT), and Spain (ES) from 2009 to 2011. Personal UVR exposure and sun behaviour were recorded by dosimetry and diaries.ResultsFarmers' average daily UVR exposure on working days ranged from 1.4 SED (DK, AT) to 2.7 SED (ES). Corresponding figures for partners were: 0.6 SED (DK) to 1.9 SED (PL), and for children (day-care/school days): 0.7 SED (ES) to 1.3 SED (PL).Discussion and ConclusionsFarmers' UVR exposure was comparable to that of outdoor workers in previous studies and exceeded the recommended UVR exposure limits on 36% (DK, AT), 29% (PL) and 56% (ES) of their working days. Attention to sun protection for outdoor workers across Europe in preventing UVR-induced skin cancer is still needed.