MHEALTH APP PROPOSAL FOR ADEQUATE SUN EXPOSURE ORIENTATION

Abstract

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is currently considered an epidemic. Information technology is an extremely up-to-date tool, providing APPs that allow you to calculate the right amount of sun exposure. However, children have not been provided with specific APPs adapted to their needs, even though it is known that 25% to 50% of all lifetime sun exposure occurs in childhood and adolescence. Objective: To present an APP, SunCare, aimed at children. Method: This was initially a quantitative and qualitative exploratory study looking for data on available APPs and vitamin D metabolism, followed by the development of the application. Results: A tool was obtained that is able to calculate, based on skin tone and geographical location, the necessary time of adequate sun exposure in an informative and user-friendly way, to monitor safe sun exposure, minimizing the risks of skin cancer and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels. Conclusion: The accuracy of healthy sun exposure time improves care for children in terms of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels, without increasing the risk of sunburn.

Keywords: Vitamin D; Mobile Applications; Skin Cancer.