Sara spends most of her summer near the beach. She lives in a mild climate and is very athletic. She likes to swim, ride her bike and play games outside. Sara knows the dangers of the sun, so she opts for tanning beds to get her "golden glow" while making sure she slathers on sunscreen every day before going out.
Joseph lives in a cooler northern climate. Summers can be very humid, but most of the year it is mild or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never really appealed to him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or working. Joseph doesn't worry about sunscreen and has only had one burn that he remembers, and that was when he was a child.
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Which of these examples do you most relate to? Did you know that Sara and Joseph are both at risk for skin cancer? We've all heard the warnings about the dangers of sunlight. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are you protected from skin cancer? Consider these myths and facts:
– Myth: Tanning beds are safer than the sun
20 minutes of staying in the solarium correspond to about four hours in the sun. Although tanning beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, "The Skin Cancer Answer" states that "UVA penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB, can cause skin cancer, and can suppress the immune system."
– Myth: Wearing sunscreen on the beach is protective
85 percent of UV rays can pass through even on cloudy days. That means you're just as at risk in your car, walking your dog, or letting your kids play at any time of the year—even if you're not at the beach. Of course, you're usually less clothed at the beach, so it's recommended to cover up even if you have sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be reapplied every two hours or after getting wet.
– Myth: Taking care of your skin will protect you now
Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 years or more to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that most people are exposed to the sun for 80 percent of their lives before the age of 18. It is estimated that just one blistering burn in childhood doubles the risk of developing melanoma later in life. Better care now will reduce the risk, but not undo the damage already done.
- Myth: Having a tan means you are more protected
Dark-skinned individuals are less likely to get cancer, but tanned skin is damaged skin. Repeated tanning damages the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.
So how do you plan to protect your family this year? Some suggestions are to limit sun exposure - especially for infants. Examine your skin for the first signs of damage. Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours afterward. Teach your children good safety habits and make sure both you and them are covered outside.
Have fun and be safe.
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