Photochem Photobiol. 2022 Oct 6. doi: 10.1111/php.13733. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The Antarctic region is a place of increasing interest. A growing number of personnel are working outdoors in extreme environmental conditions. They receive significant exposure to solar Ultraviolet radiation and are thereby at increased risk of adverse consequences. The aim of this study was to evaluate the UVR dose received by the outdoor workers at the Bulgarian Antarctic Base. Ten Caucasian healthy subjects, 8 male and 2 female with a mean age of 38 years (29-51) were enrolled. Of them 5 were scientists and 5 were logistic workers. We measured the accumulated daily dose of UVR assessed by Standard Erythemal Dose in the two groups. All subjects wore personal dosimeters located near the face – the only non-covered skin area. The dosimeters were factory calibrated for use in the Antarctic region. No statistical difference (p=0.441) could be revealed between the SEDs in the two groups. The maximum UVR dose detected in a single day was 67.9 SEDs and the highest cumulative dose was 548.03 SEDs. Study results are showing extreme measurements of UVR received by the members of the expeditions. We suggest meticulous UV protection for outdoor workers.
PMID:36200321 | DOI:10.1111/php.13733