Prevention of Melanoma
The number of people in the world who develop melanoma is increasing each
year. In the United States, the number has more than doubled in the past 20
years. Experts believe that much of the worldwide increase in melanoma is
related to an increase in the amount of time people spend in the sun.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
from the sun and from sunlamps and tanning booths damages the skin and can lead
to melanoma and other types of skin cancer. (Two types of ultraviolet
radiation -- UVA and UVB -- are explained in the
"Dictionary" section.) Everyone, especially
those who have dysplastic nevi or other risk factors, should try to reduce the
risk of developing melanoma by protecting the skin from UV radiation. The
intensity of UV radiation from the sun is greatest in the summer, particularly
during midday hours. A simple rule is to avoid the sun or protect your skin
whenever your shadow is shorter than you are.
People who work or play in the sun should wear protective clothing, such as
a hat and long sleeves. Also, lotion, cream, or gel that contains
sunscreen can help protect the skin.
Many doctors believe sunscreens may help prevent melanoma, especially those that
reflect, absorb, and/or scatter both types of ultraviolet radiation. Sunscreens
are rated in strength according to a
sun protection factor
(SPF). The higher the SPF, the more
sunburn protection is provided. Sunscreens with an SPF value of 2 to 11
provide minimal protection against sunburns. Sunscreens with an SPF of 12 to
29 provide moderate protection. Those with an SPF of 30 or higher provide high
protection against sunburn. Sunglasses that have UV-absorbing lenses should
also be worn. The label should specify that the lenses block at least 99
percent of UVA and UVB radiation.
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