WATCH OUT FOR THE SUN

WATCH OUT FOR THE SUN!

By: Stephen F. Wintermeyer, MD, MPH

Most of us love to spend time outside during the summer. In fact, most of us would prefer to work outside instead of inside when the weather is nice. And those who work outside should enjoy doing so in nice weather. However, there are dangers of working outside, and one of the biggest is the risk of skin cancer from too much exposure to the sun.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer among Americans. There are three major types of skin cancer. The two most common types, basal cell and sqamous cell, are fortunately highly curable. Approximately 1 million of these cases occur each year. The third major type of skin cancer is melanoma. There are approximately 44,000 cases of melanoma each year in the Unites States, and the incidence is growing about 4% per year. Melanoma is much more dangerous than the other types of skin cancer, causing about 7,300 deaths per year.

The most important risk factor for melanoma is exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light. Specifically, repeated, intense exposure to the sun is the biggest risk factor for melanoma. Certain genetic factors, such as a fair complexion and a family history of melanoma, are also risk factors. Occupational exposure to coal tar, pitch, creosote, and arsenic or radium can also be risk factors.

Since melanoma can be deadly, especially if not detected early, prevention and early detection are crucial. The single most important thing someone can do to lower risk for melanoma is to reduce risk of exposure to the sun’s UV rays. UV rays are strongest from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; therefore, outdoor work should be shifted to other times if possible. Clothing, such as a long sleeved shirt and long pants, and a wide brimmed hat to shade the neck, face and ears, should be worn. Sunscreen, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, should be applied to any uncovered skin exposed to the sun. Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every 2 hours.

In addition to prevention, early detection is crucial. Adults should practice skin self-exams regularly. Suspicious spots or moles should be evaluated promptly by a physician. Some dermatologists offer free screenings for skin cancer. Such screenings are often held annually in May and may be publicized as “Melanoma Monday”.

Those that work outdoors enjoy the warm weather. But remember to “Watch Out for the Sun”.

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