Fun in the Sun! Protect Yourself from Skin Cancer
With warmer weather fast approaching many of us will be spending more time outdoors. While we may be working, working out, or just having fun, we should all be aware of the damaging effects that exposure to the sun may have on our bodies. No matter what we are doing in the sun, it is important to remain protected at all times.
There are over two million cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States alone each year, most of which could have been prevented. That number is, in fact, more than cancers of the prostate, breast, lungs, ovaries, colon, uterus, and pancreas combined. The large majority of those skin cancer cases are caused by damage from the sun, but some do come from man-made sources of ultra violet light (UV, such as tanning beds) as well. There are only a few simple steps that it takes to greatly reduce the risk for skin cancer:
Cover Up: Wear protective clothing that is lightweight and comfortable to move around in. The best materials are breathable and still protect even when they are wet. Your wardrobe should include the following items: a long-sleeved shirt, a hat with at least a two inch brim, and sun glasses that are 99% UV rated (preferably polarized and wrap-around).
Wear Sunscreen: While outside, you should wear a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. This should be applied twenty minutes prior to sun exposure. Be sure to reapply at least every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating profusely. A lip balm of SPF 15 or higher should be applied regularly as well, to protect your lips.
Avoid Exposure: Try to avoid or limit exposure to the sun during the midday hours, when its rays are the most damaging (usually between 10am and 4pm). It is also recommended to take frequent breaks in a shaded area while outside to give your body a chance to cool down. Remember to also avoid over-exposure to man-made sources of UV light as well.
Check Yourself: Be proactive in the fight against skin cancer. Perform routine checks of your skin to make sure that there have been no unusual changes. Some of the things to look for are changes in moles or freckles, and unusual dark-colored or red spots. If you check your skin regularly you will be able to identify an area that may be cancerous much sooner. When checking yourself, it may also be helpful to keep a journal of where your moles and/or freckles are located, as well as their shape and size.
By following these few and simple steps, you can help to prevent serious, and sometimes fatal, skin cancers. Remember to always protect yourself, and your family, from UV damage.
Sources: Cancer.org and Sunaware.org