Essential Sun Safety Tips for Skin Cancer Awareness Month
SALT LAKE CITY: Utah has one of the highest melanoma rates
in the country, around twice that of the national average. May is Skin Cancer
Awareness Month.
Mother Stephanie Arango is aware of the importance of preventing skin cancer.
She takes protective measures to shield her skin and the skin of her children,
regardless of the weather conditions.
Arango stated, "I try to apply sunscreen every day because I know that
it's so important."
One in five persons are predicted to receive a skin cancer
diagnosis at some point in their lives.
Intermountain Cancer Centre medical oncologist Dr. Caroline Nebhan stated,
"Even one sunburn increases our risk for skin cancer."
Nebhan stated Utahns are more susceptible to melanoma, the worst type of skin
cancer, because of their outdoor lifestyle and high elevation.
"Practicing good sun safety techniques is the best way to prevent
melanoma, as most cases are caused by sunburns and prolonged sun
exposure," the expert stated.
Thus, how can you help?
Steer clear of the outdoors during busy hours. Typically, the sun is at its
brightest between 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Even on overcast days, wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher if you're
outside. According to Nebhan, SPF-containing moisturisers and cosmetics are
beneficial but insufficient.
Every two hours, as well as after swimming or perspiring, reapply sunscreen.
Wear long sleeves, long pants, hats with wide brims and sunglasses to stay
covered.
A dermatologist should be seen at least once a year, and self-examinations should be done often. Nebhan suggests checking for melanoma with the acronym "ABCDE."
- Asymmetric: Look for asymmetric
or unequally sized moles.
- Border: Look for spots with
jagged borders.
- Color: Look for spots with
varying colors.
- Diameter: Look for large spots.
Any moles bigger than the eraser of a pencil should be checked out.
- Evolving: Look for any
developing or changing moles.
Nebhan stated, "Those can all be warning signs of melanoma." Although melanomas can occur anywhere on the body, they are more frequently detected on the face and other parts that are exposed to the sun.
Although skin cancer is a serious condition, it may be
avoided, thus Arango is working to teach her children sensible sun protection
practices from an early age.
"My hope is that she will say, 'My mum used to do that all the time,' so
perhaps she will continue doing it in the future," she expressed.
Medical professionals warn us that artificial UV radiation sources, such as
tanning beds, can also harm skin.