July is UV Safety Awareness Month, a reminder that protecting your skin is more than avoiding an uncomfortable sunburn.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading preventable cause of skin cancer, yet many people underestimate their daily exposure, even when it’s cloudy or they’re simply running errands.
Faculty at the College of Nursing are working to educate communities about the importance of sun safety and the role prevention plays in reducing cancer risk. As nurses and researchers continue to advance evidence-based approaches to health promotion, they emphasize that small daily habits can have a lasting impact.
“Skin cancer represents the most common cancer diagnosis, with Basal Cell Carcinoma being the most common, followed by Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma,” shared Andrew Ward, research assistant professor at the college. “These skin cancers can have an underlying genetic component, but the primary cause for all skin cancer is cumulative UV damage to the skin.”
Understanding UV Radiation
UV radiation is an invisible form of energy produced by the sun that can damage skin cells over time. While sunlight provides important benefits, including helping the body produce vitamin D, excessive UV exposure can lead to premature aging, eye damage, sunburns, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Many people associate dangerous UV exposure with beach vacations or long days by the pool. UV rays reach your skin during everyday activities such as walking the dog, driving, gardening, attending sporting events, or eating lunch outside. UV radiation can also penetrate clouds, meaning overcast skies do not eliminate the need for protection.
Understanding the Risk
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and most cases are linked to UV radiation exposure.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer in humans, with rates continuing to rise worldwide, including among younger adults, particularly women. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer and accounts for about 20% of all non-melanoma skin cancers. Its increasing incidence has been linked to greater sun exposure, indoor tanning, an aging population, and improved detection.
Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer diagnosis and the deadliest common form of skin cancer. Research shows that repeated UV exposure and sunburns during childhood and adolescence significantly increase the risk of developing melanoma later in life.
“The effects of UV exposure are cumulative,” says Ward. “Protecting your skin today can help reduce your risk of skin cancer in the future.”
Common Sun Safety Myths
One of the biggest challenges health care professionals face is correcting misconceptions about sun protection.
- Myth: I Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days.
- Fact: Up to 80 percent of UV rays can pass through clouds, exposing your skin even when the sun isn’t visible.
- Myth: People with Darker Skin Don’t Get Skin Cancer.
- Fact: While melanin provides some natural protection, people of every skin tone can develop skin cancer. Early detection is especially important because skin cancers in people with darker skin are often diagnosed at later stages.
- Myth: Makeup with SPF Provides Enough Protection.
- Fact: While cosmetics containing SPF offer some protection, they are rarely applied in sufficient amounts and typically are not reapplied throughout the day.
- Myth: Once I Apply Sunscreen, I’m Protected All Day.
- Fact: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating.
Prevention Starts with Everyday Habits
Protecting your skin doesn’t require avoiding the outdoors. Instead, nursing experts encourage people to make sun safety part of their daily routine.
Recommendations include:
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply sunscreen generously. 1 ounce (30 mL) is required to cover your whole body.
- Chemical sunscreen needs time to work! Apply 15 minutes before going into the sun. Mineral-based (zinc) sunscreens are effective immediately.
- Remember to wear UV-blocking sunglasses and lip balm. Your eyes and lips are at risk too!
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
- Seek shade during peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Avoid indoor tanning beds. There is no safe tanning using UV light.
- Perform regular skin self-examinations and report any concerning changes to a health care provider.
“Preventative behaviors reduce overall UV exposure and help you safely enjoy the outdoors while reducing future risk for skin cancer,” shared Ward. “Unprotected UV exposure is the most preventable risk factor; let’s help reverse the rising trend in skin cancer by practicing sun-safe behaviors.”
Contacts:
Kara Clark Cardwell ([email protected], 865-974-9498)