Year-Round Sun Safety
Exposure to the sun doesn't mean you will get skin cancer.
But it is important to be smart and understand the basics of
prevention, risk factors and early detection. This page
contains tips and facts for adults and children about sun
safety that can keep one safe throughout the
year.
Skin Cancer Facts
- Everyone is at risk for skin cancer, no matter their skin
color.
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer.
- Melanoma is the number one cause of cancer deaths in
women.
- 75% of sun damage to your skin is due to exposure prior to age
20.
- Snow, water, sand reflect sun and increase exposure.
- If caught early, the common forms of skin cancer, basal and
squamous cell carcinomas are easily treated.
- Every hour someone dies of melanoma
- Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for those between
ages 25-29, and the second most common form of cancer for young
adults ages 15-29.
- UV A and UV B rays contribute to skin cancer, aging and
wrinkles.
Risk Factors
- Blonds, red-heads and fair-skinned people are most
susceptible
- People with blue or green eyes
- Severe sunburn as child
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
- Personal or family history of multiple, large, or atypical
moles
- Large amount of sun exposure, work outdoors, and/or use tanning
booths
- Exposure to x-rays and certain chemicals (coal tar,
arsenic)
Early Detection
- Monthly self exams
- Annual, full-skin exam with your doctor
- Notify your doctor about mole or skin changes including changes
in color, moles larger than a pencil eraser, bleeding,
crusting, scaliness, oozing, itchiness, tenderness
Prevention
By this summer, the FDA ruling on sunscreen labeling will take
effect. Sunscreen labeled "Broad Spectrum" and have SPF
values of 15 or higher help protect against both UVA rays that can
cause skin cancer and early skin aging and UVB radiation which
causes sunburn. Until then, be sure to:
- Use sunscreen with an SPF 30 or above and has UVA & UVB on
the label
- Apply 15-20 minutes before sun exposure
- Apply thick layer every morning to face and back of hands
regardless of weather
- Reapply every 2-3 hours and if sweating or swimming
- Wear sun protective clothing
- Lip protection
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Limit time in the sun especially between 10 a.m. and 2
p.m.
- Avoid sunbathing
- Seek shade and sunglasses with a UV block
- As an alternative, use self-tanning sprays/creams
- Be aware of medications that make you more sensitive to the
sun
