04 | 11 | 2008 Posted By Regan Zambri & Long

American Academy of Dermatology Advises Americans to be Sun Smart This Spring and Summer

This season, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is advising the public to take the same summer sun precautions that it has recommended for years to prevent skin cancer -- despite some claims to the contrary.

Many Americans are reportedly increasing their sun exposure in order to reap the health benefits of adequate vitamin D.  Although the health benefits of vitamin D can not be denied, neither can the dangers of ultraviolet radiation, which causes skin cancer.  According to experts at the AAD, sufficient vitamin D can be obtained by eating a healthy diet, or by eating fortified or naturally enriched foods which are high in vitamin D.  They also advise that intentional exposure to UV radiation from the sun or from tanning devices isn't a safe or effective way to obtain needed vitamins.

Dermatologists estimate that 1 in 5 Americans develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Furthermore, approximately 116,500 people in the United States will be diagnosed with melanoma (the most serious form of skin cancer) this year, alone.  Another 8,420 people are expected to die from such melanomas this year.

Experts at the AAD warn that if you're enjoying yourself outdoors this year, you should be smart and take the following steps to reduce your risk of skin cancer:

  • "Generously apply a water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 that provides broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays to all exposed skin.Re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Look for the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION™ on products that meet these criteria.
  • Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.
  • Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
  • Use extra caution near water, snow and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
  • Protect children from sun exposure by applying sunscreen.
  • Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don't seek the sun.
  • Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you've been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.
  • Check your birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything changing, growing or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early."

If you are concerned that your diet lacks sufficient vitamin D or think you may exhibit the signs or symptoms of skin cancer, you should contact your family physician immediately.

Previously on the DC Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:

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