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It is no secret that for some years, scientists have recognized an ozone depletion that puts the inhabitants of our planet at a higher risk for UV sun exposure. While people have responded to the threats posed by the ozone depletion by seeking to monitor substances that would cause further damage to the ozone layer, this thinning of the ozone is a present day problem and can have adverse health effects - including skin cancer.
Skin cancer can be classified as melanoma or nonmelanoma. While nonmelanoma skin cancer is rarely fatal, it can spread. Basal cell carcinoma first appears as small, fleshy bumps on the skin but can grow inward, penetrating the bone beneath the epidermis. Squamous cell carcinomas are tumors that first appear as red, scaly patches. As is characteristic of tumors, they can grow into large masses that spread to other parts of the body.
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It begins as dark-pigmented growth that appears to be scaly or bloody. The melanoma often itches and is tender to the touch. Oncology research scientists now believe there is a link between childhood sunburns and adult melanoma. In fact, research indicates that one blistering sunburn in childhood doubles the risk of adult skin cancer. It is estimated that between 50 and 80% of lifetime damage from the sun is the result of exposure before the age of eighteen.
Sun exposure is worse during the midday and afternoon, as the sun is most intense then. Exposure during this time of day accounts for at least two-thirds of the cases of skin cancer today. Parents should make sure that children wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15 to block out harmful UV rays. If a child is going to stay out in the sun all day, he or she should wear a hat with a brim of at least four inches. Most skin cancer occurs on the face, ears, and neck.
Parents should have a plan of action for protecting children from UV overexposure. This plan should include limiting the time a child plays in the midday sun, watching the UV index, and seeking shade in peak (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) sun hours. When exposure in the sun is lengthy, for instance at the pool or beach, children should have loose-fitting clothing that can be worn as a protective "top layer" over swimsuits or shorts. A light-weight tee-shirt between the child's skin and the sun can make a significant difference in the absorption of rays. Sunglasses are also important gear to have on hand as they reduce damage to the eyes that can result in cataracts later in life. Check the labels on sunglasses and purchase those that block 99 - 100% of UV radiation.
And what of the future? The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that one-fifth of the children now being born will suffer from skin cancer as adults if parents continue to fail in taking precautions against overexposure to the sun.
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