Abstract

Sun exposure has a pathogenic effect on the development of skin cancer, whose prevalence is
increasing worldwide. Avoidance of sun exposure is considered to be an effective and safe tool
for the prevention of skin cancer and photo aging. Sun exposure and photo protection-related
behavior and knowledge are important aspects in the prevention of skin cancer and
photodermatoses. The aim of the study is to evaluate the knowledge of Libya's western region
regarding sun exposure and the risk of skin cancer, as well as to study their sun-protective
attitudes and practices. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out between August and
October 2022. A self-structured questionnaire with 100 samples was used for the interviews
with the subjects, and 50 pharmacies were also recorded . The questionnaire consisted of four
parts. The first part included social demographic data; the second part included different
questions about sun exposure and sun protection behavior among study participants; the third
part, using sunscreen among study participants; and the fourth part, specialty data from 50
pharmacies. The conclusion of this study indicated good knowledge about the hazards of sun
exposure but indicated a low rate of sunscreen use by our population despite reasonable. This
necessitates the need for health education programmes..