The Sun and Skin Cancer
Hi, Everyone,
Can you believe that it's August already!? It's hot and the sun is bright. Most people are thinking about being outside. That's why we thought it would be a good time to talk about skin cancer.
Our family, being fair skinned, is especially susceptible to skin cancer. But did you know that people of all skin types can get skin cancer? It's true. That's why it's important for everyone to watch their time in the sun, and always use sunscreen that you reapply often, wear hats and sunglasses and sit in the shade.
It is important to realize that sun exposure before the age of 18 is when most skin damage occurs that will later develop into skin cancer. As parents, it is very important to model sun protective habits and make sure that your children are protecting their skin. Less than 1/3 of children adequately protect themselves against the sun (Taylor & Stanton, 2021). And 75% of teenagers get at least one sunburn each summer (Taylor & Stanton, 2021). This needs to change. Skin cancer rates are rising and although it is the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, it is one of the most preventable (Cleveland Clinic, 2021)!
There are different types of skin cancer, and you can read all about them below. You will learn what could be abnormal and when to get checked. Early detection is very important, so don’t hesitate to see your dermatologist or primary doctor.
Doing research for this month's articles has prompted me to schedule a much overdue appointment with my dermatologist. If you have any moles or spots on your body that look even a little suspicious, I hope you do the same.
Please join us in August by taking a pledge to WEAR SUNSCREEN whenever you leave the house.
Sincerely, Sylvie
Follow these tips to protect your skin from sunlight (National Cancer Institute, 2021):
-
- Wear a hat with a wide brim all around that shades your face, neck, and ears. Baseball caps and some sun visors protect only parts of your skin.
-
- Wear sunglasses that block UV radiation to protect the skin around your eyes.
-
- Wear long sleeves and long pants. Tightly woven, dark fabrics are best. Some fabrics are rated with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). The higher the rating, the greater the protection from sunlight.
- Use sunscreen products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. (Some doctors suggest using a product with an SPF of at least 30.) Apply the product’s recommended amount to uncovered skin 30 minutes before going outside and apply again every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
-
- are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
-
- can go through light clothing, windshields, windows, and clouds
- are reflected by sand, water, snow, ice, and pavement
Leave a Reply