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Karen Klickmann, (847) 330-0101, ext. 341, [email protected]

AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY RECOMMENDS TOTAL SUN PROTECTION

SCHAUMBURG, IL (December 16, 1998) -The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), in response to a new study released today in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), says the study reinforces the importance of a comprehensive sun protection program. "A comprehensive sun protection program includes sun avoidance between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wearing sun protective clothing, and sunscreen," said Lynn Drake, MD, AAD President.

"Sunscreen alone does not protect you from skin cancer. People shouldn't feel they can stay in the sun for extended periods of time because they are wearing sunscreen and aren't burning," said Dr. Drake. "They are still being exposed to some solar radiation. However, there is strong evidence that sunscreens protect against ultraviolet B (UVB) rays which is clearly linked to non-melanoma skin cancer. So we continue to recommend the use of sunscreens."

People with light skin and eyes, should be extra cautious in the sun, as the study confirmed, because they are at highest risk and were the group that developed the most nevi.

Maria Turner, MD, Dermatology Branch, Division of Clinical Sciences, NCI, in a corresponding editorial about the study, commented, "This complex relationship between melanoma and sun exposure patterns supports the need for public health programs to reduce individual sun exposure, since exposure is the only risk factor where intervention is possible."

"This study highlights our need for additional research to determine not only the causes of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, but the best ways to prevent them," said Dr. Drake.

The American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of over 11,000 dermatologists worldwide, the Academy is committed to: promoting and advancing the science and art of medicine and surgery related to the skin; promoting high standards in clinical practice, education and research in dermatology; supporting and enhancing patient care; and promoting the public interest relating to dermatology through public education programs.

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