Posts Tagged ‘Myths’

The True Myths of Skin Cancer

Baby Boomers begin the fight against skin cancer. Until recently no real warnings had been given about the harmful effects of the sun.

Skin cancer does not choose certain people, it chooses everyone. Rich, poor, famous, old or young can become victims.

Excessive sun exposure is dangerous and everyone knows it. However, approximately 50% of people over 65 are diagnosed with melanoma or some type of skin cancer. When planning for an extended day outside make sure you put skin care products on the top of your list of right things to do.

Additional things to consider to help protect you:

1. I’ll stay under the umbrella and not get burned. If going to the beach – try to remember that the majority of the UV (ultraviolet) light bounces off the sand and water. Thinking that your beach umbrella will protect you is false security. Apply a sunscreen to any exposed skin including your face.

2. All sunscreens are the same. Not true. Make sure you read the labels. Having a high rating does not mean it will protect you better. Look for a broad spectrum lotion that will block both UV’a’ and UV’b’ rays. Also try to find one with either Parsol 1789 or Titanium dioxide as an ingredient. Did you know that suntan lotion has an expiration date? You better look because it does. Another important thing to remember is to re-apply your sunscreen every 2 hours. Waterproof sunscreen will not protect you completely although waterproof. It also needs to be reapplied.

3. My sunscreen provides protection completely. I wish this was true however, you need to limit your exposure on the beach…try moving the time so that you avoid being there during the punishing 10 – 4 time period. Wear a hat with a brim all way around to protect your neck and ears. Baseball caps miss those areas. Popular today in the sunny states is clothing with UV ratings. These fabrics are generally very tightly woven.

4. Skin cancer is always Melanoma. This is really false. Skin cancer comes in many types and degrees. If discovered early – Melanoma can be removed during an office visit. The problems begin when it or any cancerous lesion is left untreated.

5. My family all had skin cancer. Although an important fact this is not always the case. Generally speaking light skin, freckles and eyes that are light such as blue or hazel run a higher risk of skin cancer and wrinkles too. People with darker skin tones who tan easy are at a lower risk category but can still be vunerable. Completing a monthly examination of your body using a mirror is important with an annual checkup by a dermatologist.

5. I don’t go out in the sun much so I am safe. Wrong again, Melanoma can also occur on moles and freckles. It has even been found on the sole or bottom of a foot.

Warning signs are a sudden change in the size, shape or color of a spot. DON’T WAIT! Have it checked.

You mean too much to others to just let it go. It might not go away.

Skin Cancer Myths… Are You Safe?

Sara spends much of her summer near the beach. She lives in a mild climate and is very athletic. She loves to swim, bike, and play games outdoors. Sara knows the dangers of the sun and so she opts for tanning salons to get her ‘golden glow’ while being sure to apply sunscreen every day before heading out.

Joseph lives in a cooler, northern climate. The summers can be very humid, but most of the year is mild or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been much of a draw for him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or at his job. Joseph doesn’t worry about sunscreen and only had one sunburn that he can remember and that was when he was a child.

Which of these examples do you most associate yourself with? Did you know that Sara and Joseph are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. 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 exposure in a tanning bed is roughly equivalent to four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, ‘The Skin Cancer Answer’ states that “UVA penetrates more deeply into the skin than UVB, can cause skin cancer, and may suppress the immune system.”

Myth: Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Protection

85 percent of UV rays can even make it through on cloudy days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, walking the dog or letting your children out to play at any time of year – even when you’re not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less attired at the beach and so covering up is recommended even when wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.

Myth: Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Protect You

Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 or more years to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people receive about 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking better care now will reduce the risk, but not eliminate the damage already done.

Myth: Having a Tan Means You’re More Protected

Dark skinned individuals are less likely to develop cancer, but tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures 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 exposure to the sun – especially for infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours after that. Teach your children good safety habits and be sure you and they are covered up when outdoors.