Sara spends most of her summer near the sea. He lives in a cool place and is a man who loves to run. He loves swimming, cycling, and playing sports outdoors. Sarah knows the dangers of the sun, so she chooses tanning salons to get a ‘golden glow’ while making sure she applies sunscreen every day before going out.
Joseph lives in a cool, northern area. Summers may be very wet, but most of the year it is cool or below freezing during the hardest winter months. The sea has never been an attraction to him, and he spends most of his time doing household chores or work. Joseph is not worried about sunscreen and had only one sunburn he can remember, and it was when he was a child.
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Which of the following examples do you associate with the most? Did you know that Sarah and Joseph are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard warnings about the dangers of sunburn. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But Are You Protected From Skin Cancer? Consider the following myths and facts:
- Myth: Leather beds are safer than the sun
20 minutes of exposure to a warm bed is about four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA more than UVB rays, ‘The Skin Cancer Answer’ states that “UVA penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB, can cause skin cancer, and may suppress the immune system.”
- Myth: Wearing Sunscreen on the Beach Is Protective
Eighty-five percent of UV rays can even pass through cloudy days. That means you are in the same car accident, walking the dog or letting your kids play at any time of the year - even when you are not at the beach. Of course, you usually do not wear too much beach, so covering is recommended even if you are wearing sunscreen. The sunscreen is also worn out due to sweat and water and should be used every two hours or after wetting.
- Myth: Caring for Your Skin Now Will Protect You
Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 years or more to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people get about 80 percent of their life in the sun before reaching the age of 18. A single sunburn is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Better care now will reduce the risk, but it will not eliminate the damage that has already been done.
- Myth: Having a Tan Means More Security
People with dark skin are less likely to get cancer, but dark skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated exposure damages the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.
So how do you plan to protect your family this year? Other suggestions are to reduce sun exposure - especially for children. Examine your skin for early signs of injury. Use sunscreen for SPF 15 or higher and apply at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours thereafter. Teach your children good safety habits and make sure you and them are safe outside.
I like it.. keep it up!
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