he time of the year for flip flops, shorts, tank tops and long summer days spent on a number of outdoor activities. But those bright sunny days conceal a dark side. All that exposed skin, especially if unprotected, can increase a person’s odds of getting skin cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed, with 5.4 million basal and squamous cell skin cancers found each year. In 2016, an approximate 76,380 people will hear the dreaded words — that they have the most feared and deadly type of skin cancer, melanoma.
While a large number of skin cancer patients are older, an increasing number are not. Melanoma is now one of the most common cancers for youth ages 15 to 29.
But with a little planning and common sense, people can reduce their skin cancer risk while still enjoying the long, hot summer season:
• Don’t attempt to block the sun entirely: About 20 minutes a day of sunlight is good for people, giving them an adequate amount of Vitamin D.
• Those who are concerned about the chemicals contained in sunscreen should seek alternative methods for skin protection. Some protection is better than none. One of the best ways to ensure sun protection without worrying about chemicals is by wearing as much protective clothing as possible while out in the sun, such as a water shirt while swimming.
• Avoid the sun during the time of day when its rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For children who don’t want to wear a watch during their school-free days, the American Cancer Society recommends teaching them this rule: If your shadow is shorter than you, it means the sun is at its strongest and it would be wise to seek shade.
• Put a lid on it: Don’t forget that heads will burn too. Those who will be out in the sun should consider wearing a hat.
• Don’t forget to apply lip balm with SPF to protect your lips.
• To ensure proper eye protection, wear sunglasses with 100 percent UVA and UVB absorption.
• According to the American Cancer Society, tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Cloudy with a chance of burning: Be cautious even on cloudy days. Many sunburns happen on cloudy days when people mistakenly believe they are safe.
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