This year, more than one million Americans will get skin cancer, a statistic we can’t ignore. With the summer months approaching, it is important to learn about the dangers of the sun and what you can do to prevent skin cancer.
The sun produces powerful rays that are harmful to our skin. These rays can be referred to as UVA and UVB rays, depending on their severity. UVB rays are more hazardous than UVA, but there is no “safe” UV light. These rays are more intense in the summer months and are also stronger at higher altitudes and closer to the equator.
Tanning is actually how our skin responds to UV light. It acts as a barrier to prevent further injury to the skin from the sun. Tanning does not, however, protect or prevent you from skin cancer.
Damage to your skin caused by the sun can have deadly effects. You can get severely sunburned or even get skin cancer. Skin Cancer is a disease in which cancer cells are found in the outer layers of the skin. There are three types of skin cancer: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, but also the least common.
There are several risk factors in contracting skin cancer, including family history and the environment in which you live. Other risk factors include: persons with white skin that burn easily; those who have had excessive exposure to UV radiation without protection, persons with over 50 moles, and people who have a personal history with melanoma have and increased risk.
There are many ways you can prevent skin damage that could ultimately result in skin cancer. First, you should avoid deliberate sunbathing and unnecessary sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. When outdoors, you should use sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher. When exposed to sunlight, wear a wide-rimmed hat, protective clothing, and UV-protective sunglasses. You should also stay away from artificial tanning devices and examine your skin head to toe to check for skin abnormalities at least once every three months. If you follow all of these preventative measures, you are sure to have a happy, healthy and safe summer!
For additional information on skin damage and skin cancer, contact Dr. Luis Pernia at Medical West at 424-4771.