Sun Safety Is Key in Preventing Skin Cancer

With an estimated 1 in 5 people likely to be diagnosed with one form of skin cancer or another, this disease is a major concern across the United States. While its causes can be many, the leading culprit in the promotion of this potentially fatal illness happens to be sun exposure. In fact, about 90 percent of all skin cancer cases can be traced to exposure to the sun’s highly damaging ultraviolet rays.

On the plus side, given its primary source, skin cancer is largely preventable. People who take measures to protect their skin from the sun’s rays may often find it’s possible to avoid not only immediate painful effects, but also long-term damage. Here are some of the measures doctors recommend to lower exposure to UV rays:

• Wear protective clothing – Unless sunbathing, wear clothing that covers the skin better when in the sun. Hats, UV protecting sunglasses and long-sleeve throws at the beach, for example, can be quite helpful.
• Choose shade – When outdoor activities are planned, set up in area where this is shade. If shade isn’t available, make it by setting up a large umbrella or bring along a portable cabana-like tent.
• Use sunscreen – Broad spectrum sunscreens that protect against UV damage are a must. When outdoors, use these products liberally and be sure to reapply often. Even on ordinary days when sun exposure only comes from driving to work, for example, sunscreen can prove quite helpful in protecting the skin.
• Avoid peak sun hours – Try to plan outdoor activities for early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the most direct, harshest rays. If this isn’t possible, use sunscreen, cover up, take advantage of shade and try to avoid direct exposure as much as possible.

Skin cancer is among the most common forms of the disease diagnosed annually in the United States. There are steps that can help people avoid this likelihood. Sun safety is perhaps one of the most critical.

About Author:-

Choice Cancer Care is an independent, physician-owned cancer center network. Dr. Gregory Echt, a radiation oncologist with over two decades of experience, is the founder of Choice Cancer Care. Choice Cancer Care is among the busiest practices in the country for brachytherapy, or prostate seed implant therapy – a cancer treatment plan for prostate cancer that provides remarkable success rates and fewer life-limiting side effects.