SKIN HEALTH

Dr. Jeannine Stein

Sun Causes 90 Percent of Cases

Golfing, boating, days at the beach are all outdoor activities we all love in Florida. But while enjoyable, this fun-in-the-sun may be detrimental to your health.

Skin cancer rates continue to rise in the United States and around the world, and the cause for greater than 90 percent of cases is unprotected exposure to the UV rays of the sun. Some studies estimate that almost half of Caucasian Americans will develop a skin cancer in their lifetime. And while the majority of these are non aggressive tumors, some individuals will develop melanoma or other serious subtypes, which could cost them their life.

‘Sun Worship’ Dangerous
Consider Mr. Clyde Haugan, a long time resident of Indian Harbor Beach, Florida. He began developing skin cancers at the age of 51 and has had over 100 procedures for skin cancer removal. Two of his tumors were diagnosed as melanomas. Even more serious skin cancers have recently required extensive lymph node surgeries and high dose radiation therapy.

FIND A SUN protective product you like and USE IT. SPF 30 or greater should be used for longer, more intense exposure, and be reapplied every two hours.

Although he keeps an inspiringly positive outlook, he relates that the worst part of skin cancer and its treatment is the inconvenience of multiple doctor visits and procedures which can be very slow to heal and restrict activities.

Mr. Haugan relates that “The irony of the situation is that in my lifetime I have only received a couple of compliments about my “nice tan,” while I have endured a multitude of comments about my ugly stitches, scars, skin grafts, and raw wounds.” He advises sun worshippers to think about the long term damage you are causing.

So What’s an Active Floridian to Do?
While some health care providers take a hard line stance regarding strict sun avoidance, more practical suggestions focus on moderate protected sun exposure and safe sun enjoyment. Precautions include:

• Avoid the “peak hours” when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest - 10 am - 3 pm. Choose a 7 am tee time or garden in the evening.
• Find a sun protective product you like and USE IT. SPF 15 is adequate for daily exposures such as running errands. Include applying sun protection a part of your morning routine-just like brushing your teeth. That way you won’t forget. SPF 30 or greater should be used for longer or more intense exposure and should be reapplied every two hours or after sweating or water exposure. Sun protective clothing is another great option, and don’t forget your sunglasses.
• 

  RECENT STUDIES have linked tanning beds strongly to the development of melanoma.

  Never use tanning beds or artificial sun lamps. Although advertised as “safe” alternatives for tanning, recent studies have linked them strongly to the development of melanoma. This risk is especially great in individuals who begin use at a young age (under 35 years). In fact, legislation is in progress in many states to limit or prohibit the use of such equipment by minors—just like tobacco and alcohol.

• If you like the look of a tan, experiment with artificial tanning products. Widely available and much improved in recent years, experienced applicators can achieve an even, natural appearing glow.
• Perform monthly self skin examinations-check hard to see areas such as your back, scalp, and between your toes. You are looking for “spots” which are changing, crusting, or non healing. Any new spot or a change in an old one should be brought to the attention of your health care provider. It’s also a good idea to have him/her check your skin-head to toe-once a year.

Living in a subtropical location like the sunshine state certainly has its lifestyle advantages. Using the above listed strategies will help prevent health problems and optimize the chances that you are able to continue to enjoy them for many years to come.

For more information about skin cancer and how you can help, please log on to www.WorldSkinCancerFoundation.com

Jeannine Stein, MD is a dermatologic surgeon with Osler Medical specializing in skin cancer surgery. Trained at Ohio State University and The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, she has been practicing in Brevard County, Florida for five years. She is a board member of the World Skin Cancer Foundation and an active committee member at both Cape Canaveral Hospital and Wuesthoff Hospital in Melbourne. She is board certified in Otolaryngolgy-Head and Neck Surgery and fellowship trained in Mohs Micrographic Surgery & Cutaneous Oncology.

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