Sun Exposure and Physical Activity: The Valuable Role of UV Wearables

Skin cancers are one of the most common types of cancer in the United States [1], and melanoma has steadily increased over the last 20 years. Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is known as the main cause of damaging effects to the skin [1], [2], yet also the most preventable risk factor. Outdoor physical activity, an important health behavior, exposes the body to UVR and is thus ostensibly linked to increases the risk of sunburn, melanoma, and non-melanoma skin cancers [3], [4]. Simultaneously, new UVR sensors can play an essential role in ensuring users gain enough sunlight for Vitamin D synthesis for optimal health. However, accurately monitoring personal UVR exposure is historically complex and costly, and thus minimal research exists at the intersection of personal UVR exposure during physical activity.