Across the country the summer sun has been extremely intense, putting outdoor enthusiasts at a higher risk of sunburns
and much more. The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates 3.5 million cases
of skin cancer are diagnosed each year across the United States.
"Skin cancer is affecting younger and younger people," explains Robert
Miller, M.D. of WellSpring
Oncology. Recent studies suggest one of the main reason is 80 percent
of people visiting tanning salons are girls and women aged 16-29.
"Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for people ages 25-29.
This is a disease you have to prevent from day one. Just one
blistering sunburn in youth more than doubles your risk of melanoma,"
says Dr. Miller.
But Dr. Miller isn't suggesting skipping the outdoors entirely, just to
be more prepared when heading out with these five tips.
Check the Clock
The summer sun gives off the most UV rays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dr.
Miller suggests finding shade or staying indoors during these hours.
"You don't have to be laying out to get a sunburn, even walking to and
from your car can expose your skin to UV rays," Dr. Miller explains.
Block the Burn
No matter what time of day it is – remember to block the burn with
sunscreen. Dr. Miller recommends SPF 30
for any outdoor activity. This will keep out about 97% of the sun's
UVA and UVB rays and give a safe way of enjoying the warm
weather. Sunscreen should be applied one-half hour
before going outside, giving the skin time to absorb it. Because
sunscreen tends to be broken down over time by the sun, and rubbed or
washed off with sweating and water exposure, it should be reapplied at
least every two hours outdoors, and immediately after swimming or
heavy sweating. At least one ounce (two tablespoons) is needed to
cover the entire body surface.
Top off Your Look
Hats aren't just for fashion, according to Dr. Miller. Wide-brim hats
provide protection for the ears, nose, shoulders and scalp from
sunburns. "Shielding your eyes from the sun is also crucial to preventing any UV damage. So don't forget the sunglasses!" Dr. Miller
warns.
No Tanning Beds
"Many used to think tanning beds were the safe way to get that summer
glow," says Dr. Miller. "But now we know there is no safe tan." The
Skin Cancer Foundation warns indoor tanners are 74 percent more likely
to develop melanoma than those who have never tanned indoors. As a
safe alternative, Dr. Miller suggests opting for spray-on tan instead.
Check the Mirror
"It's important to know your own risk factors," explains Dr. Miller.
That includes fair skin, family history and prior blistering sunburns.
Dr. Miller encourages self-exams by canvasing the skin and
looking for atypical moles or freckles and documenting any changes.
"The faster we catch the cancer, the more likely we'll be able to
eradicate it completely," Dr. Miller says.
No comments:
Post a Comment