happy + healthy
skin cancer
SUN SAFETY
AND WELLNESS
Summer is on the horizon and it’s time to pay
attention. Skin cancer is the most common cancer
in the United States. Research shows that more
people are diagnosed with skin cancer than all
other cancers combined. 1 in 5 Americans will
develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The number
of people diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest
form of skin cancer, has risen sharply over the past
3 decades.
It is important to protect exposed skin from the sun’s ultraviolet
(UV) rays all year, even if the sun isn’t shining. Most people
spend more time outdoors during the summer months, when
the sun’s rays are the most intense. Although children tend
to spend more time outdoors than adults, everyone is at risk
regardless of race, ethnicity, or skin color. Chronic sun exposure,
whether from natural light or indoor tanning, is the leading
cause of skin cancer, therefore practicing sun safety at an early
age is imperative.
THE SUN IN SIGHT
| Summer 2020
BEWARE OF CHANGE
Unprotected skin exposure, either from the sun or artificial
sources like tanning beds, can cause irreversible damage in as
little as 15 minutes. A person’s risk for melanoma doubles if they
have had more than 5 sunburns. It is very important to not only
practice sun safety but also be aware of any changes. A change
in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. Remember
not all skin cancers look the same. Be aware of any changes in
moles, spots or freckles on your skin. Warning signs to be partic-
ularly aware of include:
Changes in color
Changes in size and thickness
Changes in texture
An irregular outline
Anything bigger than the size of a pencil eraser (1/4")
Fundamentally, we need light to see. Approximately 80% of all
information we take in is received through the sense of sight.
We know the sun can damage our skin, but most are unaware
that our eyes are susceptible to just as much damage. Extended
exposure to these rays has been linked to chronic eye diseases
including cataract, growths on the eye, corneal sunburn, and
eyelid cancer.
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It can take years before you experience any of the sun's damag-
ing effects on your eyes; however, if your eyes feel tired, sore and
gritty after a day at the beach, skiing or boating, you may have
experienced UV radiation exposure.
Spots or sores that itch, hurt, scab or bleed
Open sores that do not heal within three weeks
What should I do if I spot any of these warning signs?
See a physician specializing in skin diseases immediately. Do not
overlook a warning sign because it does not hurt. A lack of pain
can still be dangerous.
www.potentialmagazine.com