FORT SILL, Okla., July 14, 2016 -- Summer is all about swimming, barbecues, gardening, cutting the grass and overall being outside. It is also the busiest time of year for the dermatology clinic at Reynolds Army Community Hospital (RACH).
Maj. Tyler Moss, Reynolds dermatologist, said sunlight helps produce Vitamin D which is important for growth and can improve people's moods, though it also has negative side effects.
"Long-term unprotected sun exposure can lead to serious skin conditions and premature aging. Sun rays contain ultraviolet (UV) radiation which is a proven carcinogen. UV radiation causes skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma," he said.
Nonmelanoma skin cancers are the most common cancers in the United States with more than 5.4 million cases reported annually. Over the past three decades, more people have had nonmelanoma skin cancer than all other cancers combined. It is also estimated that one in five Americans will develop nonmelanoma skin cancer in their lifetime.
"The good news is most times nonmelanoma skin cancer is curable," said Moss, "We see these types of skin cancers throughout the year here at the hospital and treatments we have available such as excision and topical medications are often used with successful results."
Unlike basal and squamous cell carcinomas, melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer. One person dies from melanoma every 52 minutes, with an additional estimated 76,380 new cases of invasive melanoma to be diagnosed in 2016.
The vast majority of melanoma is UV attributed. One study reported 86 percent of melanomas can be attributed to exposure to UV radiation from the sun. Another study mentions a person's risk for melanoma doubles if he or she has had more than five sunburns.
UV radiation also causes aging of the skin. Wrinkles, dark spot and discoloration are all due to UV radiation and can be prevented by decreased sun exposure, avoidance of indoor and outdoor tanning, and proper use of sunscreen.
"Our No. 1 priority here at RACH is Soldier readiness," Moss said, "and something that seems as innocent as a sunburn can contribute to an increase of melanoma and other conditions that inhibit the readiness of a unit."
Fortunately, most people can protect themselves from UV radiation in many ways. Long sleeves and pants, and a wide brimmed hat provide ample protection from the sun. Also, people should avoid being out in the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the sun's production of UV radiation is at its strongest.
People should also use a daily sunscreen even if only spending a few minutes outside. Skin damage can start within minutes on unprotected skin.
"The sun exposure you receive from little tasks such as getting the mail, walking the dog or washing the car will add up over time to cause significant damage," said Moss.
The American Cancer Society and the American Academy of Dermatology recommend people use sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. This should protect against 97 percent of UV rays. Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 40 to 80 minutes depending on the sunscreen used.
Sweating and swimming will require a reapplication more often due to the fact that it will wash off. Often sunscreens can cause redness and irritation, particularly on the face. If this happens, use a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Also, use these protection measures even on cloudy days. 90 percent of UV light still penetrates cloud coverage. Along with direct exposure from the sun, buildings, snow, sand and bodies of water can reflect 85 to 90 percent of the sun's UV rays so try and protect your skin in large cities, ski slopes and water skiing.
Moss added people should avoid tanning beds.
"Tanning beds can increase your chance of squamous cell carcinoma by 67 percent and basal cell carcinoma by 29 percent," he said. "People who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent."
Skin cancers can be prevented by taking the necessary protective measures every day.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with the dermatology clinic professionals, contact your primary care provider using TRICARE Online or calling the Reynolds appointment line at 580-558-2000.
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