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Self-reported race, pigmentary phenotypes inaccurate predictors of sun sensitivity

Patient self-reported race and pigmentary phenotypes were found to be inaccurate predictors of sun sensitivity as defined by Fitzpatrick skin prototype, according to researchers.

Using a cross-sectional survey, the researchers collected responses from 3,386 individuals regarding self-reported Fitzpatrick skin prototype (FSPT), pigmentary phenotypes, race, age and sex.

The researchers then used univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to identify any variables that could significantly predict FSPT.

Results of the analysis demonstrated that race; sex; and eye, skin and hair color were significant but weak predictors of FSPT.

The researchers constructed a multivariate logistic regression model that included the variables of sex, age, pigmentary phenotypes and either race or without race in order to quantify the variables’ ability to predict FSPT.

Following cross-validation, the researchers used a model without race to compare the initial model-predicted FSPT results with participant-reported FSPT. The findings from the final model predicted FSPT values to within approximately 1 point, on average, on the Fitzpatrick scale, spanning three levels on the six-point Fitzpatrick scale compared with participant self-reported FSPT, according to the researchers.

The researchers concluded that self-reported appearance and race contribute only a limited portion to individually reported sunburn risk, and that important unmeasured covariates impact tanning and burning more profoundly than typically expected.

Disclosure: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.