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Play It Safe in the Sun
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. The odds of developing it increase with age. Other risk factors include having fair skin that freckles, a family history of skin cancer, and more than 50 moles. But the most preventable cause of skin cancer is excessive sun exposure. If prevention fails, though, speedy detection and treatment could save your life. “The good news is that 90% of all skin cancers are curable,” states Dr. Michael Brooks with Laurel Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgical Clinic.
Walk on the Shady Side
Spending time outdoors does wonders for the body and soul. But experts warn that one severe sunburn during childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer. Children get 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before age 18; so remember that your skin needs extra protection not just from painful sunburn and premature aging, but also from skin cancer.
Protect Yourself and Your Children in the Sun
1. Limit your time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
2. Use a UVA/UVB waterproof sunscreen, minimum SPF 15, every day and start using it on your children at age 6 months.
3. Reapply sunscreen every two hours if you are swimming or sweating.
4. Cover up with long pants and long-sleeved shirts of tightly woven, light-colored fabric for more protection.
5. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protective lenses.
6. Keep young infants out of the sun.
For more information about sun-related skin cancer, call Laurel ENT Surgical Clinic at 649-8732.
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