ArticleFrontiers in public health2026
Cross-cultural beliefs and practices of caregivers regarding sunlight exposure for newborn jaundice: a scoping review.
Article in Frontiers in public health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Authors and funding
5 authors.
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Abstract
Background: Neonatal jaundice affects most newborns worldwide and remains a major cause of preventable bilirubin-induced neurological injury in low-resource settings. Although most clinical guidelines recommend standardised electrically powered phototherapy and discourage sunlight exposure for newborns with jaundice due to safety concerns, uncontrolled exposure to direct sunlight remains widespread in many communities. We aimed to chart cross-cultural beliefs and practices regarding sunlight exposure for newborn jaundice to inform safer newborn care. Methods: We conducted a scoping review using the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and PRISMA-ScR guidance. PubMed, Scopus, Medline, Embase, Global Health, APA PsycINFO, Allied & Complementary Medicine, and other sources were searched for studies published between January 2000 and April 2026. Eligible studies included reports on knowledge, attitudes, practices, or recommendations regarding sunlight exposure for neonatal jaundice among mothers, caregivers, healthcare workers, or within health systems. Data were extracted using a standardised charting form and synthesised descriptively by geographical region. The review protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF). Results: Of 1,043 records, 109 studies from 30 countries met the inclusion criteria: Sub-Saharan Africa ( Conclusion: Despite safety concerns and recommendations in several clinical guidelines in high-income countries discouraging direct sunlight exposure for neonatal jaundice, unsupervised sunlight exposure for newborn jaundice remains widespread, professionally endorsed, and inadequately scrutinised for potential harm. Improving access to conventional phototherapy, strengthening caregiver education, and evaluating safe alternatives in resource-constrained settings should be prioritised to ensure optimal newborn care.
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