Tips to reduce the risk of skin cancer this summer

Did you know that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States? As summer approaches, it’s important to remember that excessive sun exposure can have harmful side effects, including an increased risk of skin cancer. Although some skin cancers spread slowly and often respond to treatment, others are difficult to treat and can have long-term and even fatal consequences. Understanding the risks is the first step in making informed lifestyle changes that can help reduce your chances of developing skin cancer.

What are the risks?

UV exposure: The greatest risk of skin cancer comes from exposure to UV rays, including sunlight, sunlamps, and tanning beds. The higher the exposure, the higher the risk. Interestingly, although melanoma rates are higher in the Southeast, where the sun is strong, some of the highest rates of melanoma in the United States are in the Northwest. This should be a stark reminder that cloudy skies do not protect against UV rays and that protecting your skin even on cloudy days is essential.

White skin: The American Cancer Society reports that melanoma is 20 times more common in white people than in African Americans. The risk is also higher in people with blonde or red hair, blue or green eyes, or skin that burns or breaks easily.

Aging: Although the risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in young adults, especially women. People who had at least one serious sunburn (blister) in childhood, or who used sunlamps or tanning beds before age 30, are also at an increased risk.

Since it is almost impossible to live without exposure to the sun, everyone is at risk. But there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from the sun and help reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. They include:

Put on sunscreen. Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to all exposed areas 30 minutes before outdoor activities. Cover areas such as the back of the ears and neck, and the tops of the feet and hands. If you are bald, it is also important to apply it to the scalp. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. It is also important to remember that sunscreen should be used on babies older than six months.

Coverage: The sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 am. M and 4 M M. If you work outdoors, tightly woven clothing will provide the best protection from the sun. Sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and hats with material that cover the back of the neck also help protect the delicate skin on the neck, face, and around the eyes.

Wear sunscreen swimwear: Look for swimwear that covers more skin, such as swim shirts, one-piece suits, and long pants. Many kids now wear swim trunks or undershirts while in the pool or at the beach, but it’s a good idea for adults too.

Take a closer look at your skin: It’s important to have regular and thorough skin checks, especially if you have a large number of moles or other blemishes. While this will not prevent skin cancer, the tests can help detect the disease in its early stages. Always tell your doctor if you notice new, unusual or changing moles or growths on your skin, and it’s a good idea to have a professional skin exam at least once a year.