Current innovations of wearable UV sensor devices for skin cancer prevention: A scoping review

Abstract

Prolonged UVR exposure remains a preventable risk factor for skin cancer. Recently, wearable UV sensors have been suggested as a way to encourage sun-protective behaviour through a digital health approach. However, evidence on whether these devices influence behaviour remains limited. The aim of the current research was to review recent literature concerning wearable UV sensors for skin cancer prevention and to develop an evidence-informed concept of a wearable UV sensor paired with a smartphone app. In addition to a scoping review of peer-reviewed English-language journal articles and full conference papers from 2021 to 2025, a cross-sectional structured questionnaire survey (n = 66) assessing sun-protective behaviours, level of awareness, users' preferences, and barriers to use was conducted. Survey data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 30). Two main categories of sensing mechanisms were identified: passive photochromic or colourimetric systems and active photoelectric or electronic sensors. Behavioural impact varied among different studies and, in some cases, appeared to be influenced by the presence of specific behaviour change components like goal setting, reminders, or personal feedback. Survey results supported a preference for a wrist-worn form and helped to form the design of the concept. Based on these findings, the DermUVtrack concept was developed: a wrist-worn UV sensor that combines UV exposure monitoring with real-time feedback and behaviour-change intervention. Generally, wearable UV sensors could be useful in skin cancer prevention when implemented in multi-component behaviour change interventions.