Whether under clear skies or clouds, safeguarding your skin from harmful sun rays is paramount as skin cancer rates continue to rise.
According to the National Cancer Institute, there were approximately 100,640 new cases of skin melanomas and 8,290 related deaths in the U.S. last year alone. As of 2021, an estimated 1.4 million Americans were living with melanoma of the skin. Additionally, basal and squamous cell carcinomas, the most common types of skin cancer, affect about 6.1 million people annually across the country.
Amy Johnson, a family nurse practitioner and member of the Virginia Farm Bureau Farm Safety Advisory Committee, highlighted that professions requiring extensive outdoor exposure—such as farming, landscaping, and logging—are particularly at risk.
The primary cause of most skin cancers is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which emanates from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps. The sun’s UV rays are typically strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even on overcast days, up to 80% of these rays can penetrate clouds, underscoring the importance of sunscreen as a daily safeguard.
Johnson emphasized the necessity of incorporating sunscreen into everyday outdoor routines, regardless of weather conditions. “Anyone with a history of sun exposure should undergo an annual skin check by a qualified health professional,” she advised. Johnson also urged vigilance in monitoring skin lesions for any changes in color, shape, or size, recommending prompt evaluation if rapid changes occur. Early detection can often lead to successful removal of concerning lesions through simple in-office procedures.
To mitigate the risk of skin cancer, the CDC and FDA provide the following guidelines:
1.Monitor the UV Index daily; protect skin when the index is 3 or higher.
2.Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) to all exposed skin before outdoor activities.
3.Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel.
4.Wear protective clothing made from tightly woven fabric and opt for darker colors for enhanced protection.
5.Utilize a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB radiation.
6.Seek shade whenever possible, and ensure medications do not increase sun sensitivity without precautionary measures.
Johnson also cautioned against using recalled spray sunscreens, advising consumers to check the FDA website for product safety updates.
Protecting yourself against skin cancer requires diligence and adherence to these preventive measures, ensuring safety and well-being during outdoor activities.
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