May is National Skin Cancer Prevention Month. Not only is a sunburn super uncomfortable, but it also damages people’s skin and can lead to skin cancer. This summer, don’t forget the sunscreen when you’re headed outside.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Skin cancer is a disease that causes skin cells to grow out of control. This type of cancer is usually a result of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, tanning beds, or sunlamps. These UV rays cause skin damage, and over time, this damage can add up, leading to changes in skin texture, premature skin aging, and sometimes skin cancer.
There are several types of skin cancer, and some can usually be cured. The two most common types are basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Basal cells are the top layer of skin cells, and squamous cells are skin cells below the top layer. Melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer; it can spread to other areas of the body, like the brain and liver.
The most common sign of skin cancer is a change in your skin, such as a new growth or a sore that doesn’t heal. Knowing the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma can help people recognize the warning signs of melanoma. “A” stands for asymmetrical; the mole or spot has an irregular shape with two parts that look very different. “B” is for border; the border of the spot or mole is irregular or jagged. “C” is for color, uneven color. Next, “D” stands for diameter; if the mole or spot is larger than the size of a pea. Finally, “E” for evolving; the mole or spot has changed during the past few weeks or months. If you notice any of these warning signs or other changes in your skin, talk with your doctor.
In addition to skin cancer, UV rays have also been linked to eye conditions such as cataracts. Wearing UV sunglasses that protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays can help prevent eye damage and protect the delicate skin around your eyes. Wraparound sunglasses are best because they block UV rays sneaking in from the side.
There are so many ways to protect your skin from UV rays. One simple way is to try to stay in the shade when you’re outdoors. If you’re sitting outside, try to stay under a shaded tree or use an umbrella to shade yourself. If you’re planning an outdoor activity, consider keeping it in a shady area like under a shelter at a park.
Wearing clothing that covers your skin, like long sleeves or pants, can also help protect your skin from the sun. This isn’t always possible in the hot and humid summer, but you can try wearing loose-fitting long sleeves and pants, which can help keep you cool and protect you from the sun. Some clothing is even certified as offering UV protection! Hats can also provide valuable protection from the sun for your head, ears, face, and neck. The best type of hat is a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face and the back of your head, made of tightly woven fabric. If you wear a baseball cap, be sure to protect your neck by using sunscreen.
In addition to staying in the shade, wearing long clothing, and wearing hats, sunscreen is super important for protecting your skin from sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that filters out both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply a thick layer of sunscreen on any exposed skin before heading outside, and be sure to reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Spending time outdoors, especially in the summer, is a great way to reduce stress, stay active, and spend time with loved ones, but don’t forget to protect your skin.
— Bridget Zimmerman is the Public Health Educator for the Green County Public Health Department and can be reached at bzimmerman@greencountywi.org or 608-328-9509.
