NEWS for North Dakotans
Agriculture Communication, North Dakota State
University
7 Morrill Hall, Fargo, ND 58105-5665
April 30, 1998
Two types of skin cancer are the most common and most curable forms of human cancer. Even so, it's doubtful anyone would volunteer to contract either basal- or squamous-cell skin cancer. Yet those who are careless about their exposure to the sun or their use of tanning machines are asking for trouble, says a researcher at North Dakota State University.
"There is no such thing as a healthy tan because a tan means that your skin has been damaged," says Linda Manikowske, an assistant professor in the apparel, textiles and interior design department at NDSU. "Tanning machines can cause the same problems as too much sun."
Beyond tanning, people who've received painful, blistering sunburns as young children or teenagers face a greater risk of developing malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Manikowske says the incidence of melanoma has increased dramatically since the 1950s.
Early detection is key to survival. Recent statistics from the National Cancer Institute show that once melanoma has spread beyond its original site, the five-year survival rate is only 39 percent.
To help people take appropriate action to minimize the dangers posed by deep tans and sunburns, Manikowske offers these tips for those who work or play outdoors:
n Use clothing for protection. A wide-brimmed hat helps protect the ears, nose and forehead. Research shows that each inch of brim reduces risk by 10 percent. Darker clothing offers more protection than light, and dry clothing protects better than wet.
n Some types of active-wear garments contain special fabrics designed to protect against the sun.
n Use sunscreen products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater. Apply 30 minutes before going out and reapply every three hours.
n Try to stay out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the period when the sun's rays are most intense. This warning is especially important for infants and young children.
n Remember that ultraviolet (UV) rays get through on cloudy days too, so don't restrict the use of sunscreen only to sunny days. Also, wear sunglasses that filter out UV radiation, and be alert to the power of UV rays reflected from sand, water, cement—even snow.
nLook for a lip balm that contains sunscreen. The lower lip is a common site for skin cancer.
n Certain medications, such as antibiotics, make skin more light sensitive. If in doubt, check with your doctor.
"If having a tan is important to you, self-tanning products are better than spending time in the sun," concludes Manikowske. "Manufacturers are improving these products, which now do a better job than they used to, but be careful not to use a self-tanning product with a low SPF. It won't give you the protection you need when you're outside."
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Source: Linda Manikowske (701) 231-7352
Editor: Dean Hulse (701) 231-6136