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SUNSCREENS AND MELANOMA RISK
NEW YORK, NY (October 28, 1998) - Sunscreens remain a useful means of reducing exposure to damaging solar ultraviolet (UV) light. The potential for ultraviolet exposure remains high year-round, even in Northern climates. Recent controversy over the role of sunscreens in preventing melanoma and skin cancer has raised questions about the use of these agents.
Typically, there are one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States, including 41,600 new cases of melanoma. The American Academy of Dermatology has made a commitment to promote new education legislation at national and local levels to communicate safe sun messages. But what role does sunscreen really play in an overall sun protection strategy?
Speaking at the American Academy of Dermatology's Derm Update '98, Mark Naylor, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, University of Oklahoma, Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, reported on new theories regarding sunscreens as a cause of melanoma.
"There is great concern among dermatologists that sunscreens alone do not protect against melanoma and other skin cancers. Unfortunately, some individuals feel that sunscreen should provide enough protection, and they may ignore other sun safety behaviors that could provide additional protection," Dr. Naylor said.
Some individuals may ignore suspicious marks or lesions as potentially dangerous because they feel that sunscreen alone provides all the protection they need. Daily sunscreen use, when combined with other sun avoidance behaviors, has the potential to substantially reduce the year-round exposure to solar ultraviolet light and, therefore, decrease the risk for UV-induced tumors such as melanoma, basal cell, and squamous cell skin cancer. All skin cancers are harmful, and malignant melanoma can be deadly if left untreated.
Decreases in ozone density over the United States makes UVB ultraviolet light a prime suspect in the dramatic upswing in amphibian abnormalities noted in recent decades. This emphasizes the continuing need to improve public awareness.
Sun exposure in early childhood and adolescence contributes to skin cancer. Sunburn is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. Skin type and family history cannot be changed, but everyone can control their sun safety habits and take precautions for protection.
Sunscreens are being customized to meet a variety of needs. The industry is continually coming out with new products, "improved" versions of old favorites and product extensions. Significant improvements include less irritation and improved substantivity.
Selecting a sunscreen has become a complicated, but important decision. The most important factor in choosing a sunscreen is its ability to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB ultraviolet light that can contribute to premature wrinkling, sunburn and skin cancer.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that consumers choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 and use it year-round. Sunscreens are rated or classified by a SPF that can range from 2 to 60. These numbers refer to the product's ability to screen or block the sunburn rays.
While sunscreens remain an important and practical method to reduce UV exposure, they must not be used to the exclusion of other means of sun exposure reduction. In addition to the use of sunscreen, sun safety should be practiced at all times. Always cover up with a hat and dark clothing when outdoors. Don't play or work outdoors without a shirt. Put on a shirt and hat after swimming or even wear a
T-shirt while swimming. Tightly woven clothing not only filters out the sun, but also reflects heat and helps to keep you feeling cool.
In addition to sunscreen and sun safety, everyone should practice frequent self-examination of all parts of the body. Check for any changes in moles on a regular basis.
The American Academy of Dermatology is the largest medical society representing physicians who specialize in treating conditions of the skin, hair and nails.
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REFERENCE NOTE:
Naylor, M.F., M.D.; Farmer, K.C., Ph.D.; The Case for Sunscreens, Archives of Dermatology, September 1997,
pp. 1146-1154.
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