It is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions while under the sun from as early in life as possible. Approaches to prevent skin cancer include: Show
In the winter time, it may be advisable to the above precautions when exposed to sun for prolonged periods, especially in the presence of snow or at high altitudes. Reducing ExposureWorkers should avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun, especially to the intense midday rays between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. during the summer. If possible, people should plan outdoor work for early morning or late afternoon, and work in the shade as much as possible. Umbrellas, buildings, shade structures, trees, canopies, etc., can protect against the direct rays from the sun. Work, and take breaks in the shade when ever possible. Set up shade structures when shade is not available. In addition, water, white sand or concrete, snow, and ice can reflect from around 10 percent to 85 percent of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Skin may require extra protection against these indirect, reflected rays. Workplaces can also rotate workers between site locations to help reduce UV exposure. Wearing Protective Clothing and SunglassesThe use of wide brim hats and clothes made from close-knit fabric can protect the skin and scalp from ultraviolet radiation. Although long-sleeved shirts and long-legged pants may not be comfortable in extremely hot weather, they do help protect the skin. Clothing specifically designed to be sun protective or sun blocking will indicate the protection rating (a UV protection factor, or UPF). Be aware that not all clothing offers the same protection. Factors include the colour of the clothing, construction, materials the item is made from, fit, and coverage over the body. Some fabrics lose their SPF rating when they get wet. Workers should be informed about different fabric characteristics that effect the transmission of sunlight. Wear wrap-around sunglasses that absorb UVA and UVB radiation. Using Protective SunscreensWorkers should liberally apply protective sunscreen on exposed skin 20 minutes before working in the sun, then reapply it during the periods they spend under the sun, as directed by the manufacturer's instructions (usually every two hours). Most sunscreens are colourless, invisible, and cosmetically acceptable. Sunscreens should be used in addition to, not instead of, working in shade and wearing suitable clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Sunscreens are not intended to extend the exposure time to sunlight, but rather to reduce the effects of sunlight when people have to be in the sun. The level of protection depends greatly on how the sunscreen is applied. A wide variety of sunscreens are available. They all contain chemical ingredients that weaken (but do not eliminate) the effects of ultraviolet radiation. The most widely used protective chemicals are PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) and closely related chemicals such as cinnamates, salicylates, benzophenones, or anthranilates. Some sunscreens contain only one of these protective chemicals while others may have two or more for greater reliability. Manufacturers label sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF). The higher the factor, the greater the protection from the sun.
The Canadian Cancer Society recommends a broad spectrum sunscreen (protects against UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 30 or higher. Follow the manufacturer’s directions. A sunscreen's effectiveness also depends upon its ability to withstand heat, humidity and sweat. For example, sunscreens should be applied 20 minutes before going outdoors, and reapplied every two hours, or more often if perspiring (sweating), swimming, or working in water. Use a broad spectrum lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher as well. People with skin sensitive to sunlight should use a sunscreen with a high SPF. Examining Skin RegularlyPeople who work under the sun should examine their skin regularly for any unusual changes. The danger signs include any wound, sore, or patch of skin that won't heal or constantly scales. Also examine for any growing lump, particularly if brown or bluish in colour. It is important to get medical care for anything that looks suspicious rather than wait until the problem becomes untreatable. The sun's rays make us feel good, and in the short term, make us look good. But our love affair isn't a two-way street. Exposure to sun causes most of the wrinkles and age spots on our faces. Consider this: One woman at age 40 who has protected their skin from the sun actually has the skin of a 30-year-old! We often associate a glowing complexion with good health, but skin color obtained from being in the sun – or in a tanning booth – actually accelerates the effects of aging and increases your risk for developing skin cancer. Sun exposure causes most of the skin changes that we think of as a normal part of aging. Over time, the sun's ultraviolet (UV) light damages the fibers in the skin called elastin. When these fibers break down, the skin begins to sag, stretch, and lose its ability to go back into place after stretching. The skin also bruises and tears more easily -- taking longer to heal. So while sun damage to the skin may not be apparent when you're young, it will definitely show later in life. How Does the Sun Change My Skin?Exposure to the sun causes:
What Causes Skin Cancer?Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of all cancers in the U.S. and the number of cases continues to rise. It is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. This rapid growth results in tumors, which are either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell and squamous cell cancers are less serious types and make up 95% of all skin cancers. Also referred to as non-melanoma skin cancers, they are highly curable when treated early. Melanoma, made up of abnormal skin pigment cells called melanocytes, is the most serious form of skin cancer and causes 75% of all skin cancer deaths. Left untreated, it can spread to other organs and is difficult to control. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the number-one cause of skin cancer, but UV light from tanning beds is just as harmful. Exposure to sunlight during the winter months puts you at the same risk as exposure during the summertime, because UVA rays are present in daylight. Cumulative sun exposure causes mainly basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer, while episodes of severe sunburns, usually before age 18, can raise the risk of developing melanoma. Other less common causes are repeated X-ray exposure and occupational exposure to certain chemicals. Who Is at Risk for Skin Cancer?Although anyone can get skin cancer, the risk is greatest for people who have fair or freckled skin that burns easily, light eyes and blond or red hair. Darker skinned individuals are also susceptible to all types of skin cancer, although their risk is substantially lower. Aside from complexion, other risk factors include having a family history or personal history of skin cancer, having an outdoor job and living in a sunny climate. A history of severe sunburns and an abundance (greater than 30) of large and irregularly-shaped moles are risk factors unique to melanoma. What Are the Symptoms of Skin Cancer?The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, typically a new mole or skin lesion or a change in an existing mole.
When looking for melanoma, think of the ABCDE rule that tells you the signs to watch for:
Skin cancer is usually diagnosed by performing a biopsy. You'll be awake for this short, in-office procedure. First, you'll get some local anesthesia, which means it will numb just that area of your skin. A biopsy involves taking a sample of the tissue, which is then placed under a microscope and examined by a dermatopathologist, or doctor who specializes in examining skin tissue. How Is Skin Cancer Treated?Treatment of skin cancer is individualized and is determined by the type of skin cancer, its size and location, and the patient's preference. Standard treatments for non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas) include:
Standard treatments for melanoma skin cancer include:
Nothing can completely undo sun damage, although the skin can somewhat repair itself, especially with on-going sun protection. So, it's never too late to begin protecting yourself from the sun. Your skin does change with age -- for example, you sweat less and your skin can take longer to heal, but you can delay these changes by staying out of the sun. Follow these tips to help prevent skin cancer: |
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