It's summertime and most of us are enjoying all of the outdoor activities that come with this time of year. Often times, we can forget to use sun safety, such as using sun block with at least 15 SPF. We can also check local UV ratings to help us to determine steps that will make our outdoor time in the sun, safe and enjoyable.
(My Photo)
I've taken a strong interest in this subject over the last few years after my husband was diagnosed with skin cancer. Fortunately, the type of cancer he developed was not a more invasive form and was successfully treated following two surgeries.
We'll discuss the different types of skin cancer that many are dealing with, and ways to avoid developing skin cancer throughout this article.
According to a report by NASA scientists, data gathered over the last 30 years of satellite readings show that the intensity of ultraviolet rays have increased, in some locations by a full six point jump in the index.
The lines are measured hemispherically, and the examples NASA referenced are in the northern hemisphere and runs through central Texas and the southern hemispher through the country of Uruguay. These areas are focus points and general references. It's important to remember that no matter where you live, sun safety should never be ignored.
The highest levels of increased ultraviolet rays have occurred in areas in mid and high latitudes, with little to no change in tropical regions.
Ultraviolet Radiation
Why is it important to understand the effects of ultraviolet radiation?
According to the American Association of Dermatology,
*Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the USA.
*It is estimated that one out of every five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
*Nearly 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.
*More than 1 million Americans are currently living with skin cancer.
Link:American Academy of Dermatology
There are three types of ultraviolet rays that are responsible for skin damage.
*UVA rays are responsible for damaging skin with long term effects such as wrinkles.
*UVB rays are slightly stronger than UVA and can damage even the DNA of skin cells directly.
*UVC rays are stronger than the above two, but these rays do not make it through our atmosphere, (fortunately.)
Based on what scientists know today about UVB rays, there are none that are safe. UV rays can go through clouds, so cloud coverage is not protection.
UV exposer also greatly increases the risk of developing cataracts as we age. Sunglasses with UV protection are always a good choice.
Children and Sunburns:
Through studies done over the last 30 years, scientists draw a strong correlation between sunburns during childhood and an increased risk of developing skin cancer in adulthood. Taking measures now to protect your children from UV rays decreases their chances of developing skin cancer later in life, and instills the thoughtful process of using sun safety for life.
Types of Skin Cancer:
I won't include graphics here, but I encourage anyone who might be concerned to visit this link:
There are three types of skin cancer.
Basil Cell Cancer, this type begins in the basil cells.
Symptoms that should not be ignored.
- Open sores that do not heal.
- A reddish patch on the skin that may seem to heal but frequently returns.
- Bumps are nodules that sometimes look like moles.
- Areas that develop that look like light skin scars.
Sqaumous cell skin carcanoma warning signs:
- Red patches that are scaly and sometimes bleed.
- Elevated growth in central depression, (such as the lip) that sometimes bleeds.
- An open sore that doesn't heal for weeks and seems to get larger.
- A wartlike growth that crusts and occasionally bleeds.
Melanoma, which is the most deadly form of skin cancer.
This type of cancer effects that part of the skin that gives skin color.
Catching signs this type of cancer early often allows for highly effective treatable options.
It's important to examine your skin at least monthly. Know where your moles are located, and the patterns on your skin and check for new moles or changes in existing moles. It's always a good idea to check with your doctor is there are any areas on your skin that are a concern to you. Most of the time, there isn't an issue, but it would put a person at ease by just making certain. "It's better to be safe than sorry."
Here is a link to The American Society to read more about this type of cancer and the early signs that we all should watch for.
Last but not least, always check your local index report before spending the day out in the sun.
Here is a link to hourly UV indexes where you can search for your location for information in your area.
And a comparison chart with a UV index for skin safety.
Always use safety with all of your summer plans, check the UV ratings, and most importantly, have fun!