Sun exposure is a part of our daily lives, but it’s important to know the risks it causes. Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer, and many cases can be prevented. Here are some easy ways to protect your skin from the sun and avoid cancer.
The Importance of Sun Protection
1. Understanding UV Radiation: The sun releases ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage our skin cells and increase the likelihood of skin cancer. UV rays are at their strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
2. Types of UV Rays:
– UVA: Penetrates deep into the skin, causing premature aging and contributing to skin cancer.
– UVB: Causes sunburn and plays a major role in skin cancer development.
Effective Sun Protection Strategies
1. Sunscreen: Applying sunscreen is crucial in protecting your skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, particularly after swimming or sweating.
2. Protective Clothing: Wearing proper clothing is important even if you are wearing sunscreen.
– Cover Up: Wear long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield your skin from direct sunlight.
– UPF Clothing: Seek out clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) labels for added sun protection.
3. Seek Shade: Minimize direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) by using umbrellas, seeking natural shade, or wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
4. Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds expose you to artificial UV radiation, significantly heightening the risk of skin cancer. Choose safer alternatives like self-tanning lotions.
Early Detection and Self-Exams
1. Know Your Skin: Regularly inspect your skin for any changes, new moles, or irregularities.
2. ABCDE Rule:
– Asymmetry: Irregularly shaped moles.
– Border: Jagged or uneven edges.
– Color: Multiple colors within a mole.
– Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
– Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color.
3. Professional Skin Checks: Schedule annual skin examinations with your primary care provider or a dermatologist. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful UV radiation is key in preventing skin cancer. By following these sun protection strategies and being proactive in skin health, you can enjoy the sun safely while reducing the risk of skin cancer. Make an appointment with your primary care provider today.
Want to get a head start on your health? Call MHEDS at 814-4536229 (Peach Street) or 814-616-7730 (John F. Kennedy Center).
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Sources:
- American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Skin Cancer Prevention.
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection.html - Skin Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). Sunscreen FAQs.
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/ - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Skin Cancer.
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/
