Issue

Sun Exposure

Background

More than the general public, you know that cancer can happen to you. So be smart and acknowledge that skin cancer is very common, but your risk can be significantly reduced. No vanity tan is worth losing your life or large chunks of your body over. Tanning and burning also increases wrinkles and more blotchy pigmentation to one's complexion. Although some skin cancers are not sun related, the majority are.

Information

The key to prevention is paying attention to three factors:

1. Type of Sun Exposure: amount, time of day, distance from equator, and height from sea level
2. Sunscreen: which type, how applied, when applied
3. Protective Coverings: clothing, hats, sunglasses

Here's why:

• A single severe sunburn during infancy doubles a person's risk of the most deadly skin cancer, malignant melanoma.

• Some medications can cause sun sensitivity called "photosensitivity." Know the side-effects of any medication prescribed for you.

• Tanning beds use UVA radiation which causes damage to the skin and accelerates damage caused by natural sunlight. Cancer survivors should not use tanning beds. Learn to appreciate, protect, and celebrate your natural skin tone. Long may you live, without unnecessary wrinkles and spots.

• Wear sunscreens even on cloudy days or when the temperature may be cool, especially if around reflective surfaces like snow, sand, and water. Exposure in the mountains (higher altitude) increases the potential for damage.

• An SPF (Sun Protective Factor) of 15 is recommended for almost everyone. Look for products that screen out both UVB and UBA rays. Although most people know that it's the UVBs that burn and cause cancer, UVA rays can cause long-term damage and enhance the carcinogenic effects of the UVB rays. Some sunscreens contain irritants that can bother those with sensitive skin: PABA, fragrances, and colorings. Hypo-allergenic products are available. Waterproof products will last longer without needing to be reapplied, but teens or adults with acne may need an alcohol-based, non-comedogenic or non-waterproof sunscreen.

• Fluorescent lights are not a problem. Window glass screens out the harmful rays.

Checking yourself:

• Watch for changes in a lump, bump, or mole, such as mottling or a change in color; bleeding; the formation of a sore that does not heal within a month or redness or soreness in a lesion that becomes irritated from rubbing or clothing (such as moles in the collar line).

Here's a little-known secret:

• Sunscreens need to be applied 30 minutes before exposure because they need time to penetrate the skin. Go ahead and put it on all over in the morning and then reapply 30 minutes before prolonged sun exposure. And don't forget your lips and ears which are the most exposed parts of most people's bodies.

Resources

This section condensed from a patient education flier developed by UW Health/Physicians Plus. Madison, WI.