Digital Photoaging Across Ethnic Groups: Patterns of Skin Changes and Protective Behaviors.

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the distinctions between ethnic differences in the expression of premature aging as well as the protective behaviors of those who have been exposed to LED screen devices.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out at PNS Shifa Hospital, Karachi, between October 2023 and May 2024. A total of 450 participants aged 27 to 40 years were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were col-lected using a structured questionnaire encompassing demographic details, LED exposure patterns, protective practic-es, and self-reported indicators of premature aging. Participants were classified into ethnic groups: Punjabi, Sindhi, Mu-hajir, Pashtun, Balochi, and Others. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were per-formed using SPSS version 29, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant
Results: Most of the participants were Punjabis (31.1%), followed by Sindhi (20.2%) and Muhajir (18.2%). Ethnicity was not significantly associated with the use of UV protection (χ ² =5.54, p=0.353) and use of SPF (χ ² =9.23, p=0.100). Similar-ly, ethnicity did not show a strong relationship with dark circles (p=0.57), decreased elasticity (p=0.68), dry skin (p=0.60), grey hair (p=0.56), or hair fall (p=0.47). However, fine wrinkles showed borderline statistical significance (p=0.05).
Conclusion: Ethnicity does not appear to be a significant determinant of digital photoaging in Pakistan. Instead, expo-sure to visible light emerges as the primary contributing factor. Universal photoprotective measures are therefore recom-mended, while further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Key words: Ethnicity, digital photoaging, visible light exposure, skin aging.