Uma análise integrada da radiação UV, das características cutâneas, dos hábitos de fotoexposição e da vulnerabilidade socioeconômica no sul do Amazonas

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major environmental health risk factor, particularly in tropical regions, where exposure levels tend to remain high throughout the year. In the Brazilian Amazon, the lack of surface monitoring stations and the scarcity of integrated studies on the effects of UV radiation on vulnerable populations represent critical gaps for the development of effective public policies. This thesis proposed an interdisciplinary approach integrating atmospheric, photobiological, and social data to investigate UV exposure and its relationship with skin cancer susceptibility in the southern region of the state of Amazonas. Objective: To describe seasonal variations, trends, and correlations of solar ultraviolet radiation, as well as its association with skin cancer susceptibility in the region. Materials and Methods: The study was based on the analysis of remotely sensed data (OMI/Aura and CAMS), including variables such as UV irradiance, Ultraviolet Index (UVI), cloud optical thickness (COT), total ozone column (TOC), total column water vapor (TCWV), particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), and aerosol optical depth (AOD), covering the 2005–2022 period. Additionally, household survey data collected by local municipal health department in 2022 were analyzed, encompassing skin phototypes, sun exposure habits, photoprotection practices, and socioeconomic vulnerability indicators. Results: The findings indicated that the UVI follows a well-defined seasonal pattern, with risk levels classified as “very high” and “extreme” throughout the year. TCWV, AOD, and TOC were identified as the most influential factors on UVI. Statistically significant upward trends in UVA irradiance were observed, associated with reductions in cloud cover. The predominance of phototypes III to V in the studied population did not result in effective photoprotection practices, particularly among individuals in socioeconomic vulnerability, who showed a greater tendency toward prolonged sun exposure and lower sunscreen usage. A statistically significant association between socioeconomic vulnerability and low adherence to photoprotection was confirmed through the chi-square test and an Odds Ratio of 2.28. Conclusions: Atmospheric factors, socioeconomic conditions, and individual behaviors interact in a mutually reinforcing manner in UV exposure and skin cancer susceptibility. The absence of surface monitoring, combined with limited clinical and socioepidemiological data, hinders the effective response to this issue in the Amazon. The findings underscore the need to expand health education campaigns, incorporate the Fitzpatrick scale into national population surveys, and strengthen early diagnosis networks in remote areas to mitigate the cumulative effects of UV radiation on vulnerable populations.