Don't Skimp on the Sunscreen this Summer

Sometimes it can seem like an extra step to apply sunscreen while on a hot beach or beside the pool, but a new message by the Public Access to SunScreens (PASS) Coalition, comprised of public health organizations, physician groups, sunscreen manufacturers, and citizens, reiterates the importance of sunscreen in reducing the risk of melanoma, other skin cancers, and premature aging.

A warning such as this one is critical, according to the coalition. In 2019, more than 192,000 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma and over 7,200 Americans will die from the disease. This is a 7.7% increase from 2018.

The best way to reduce the risk of this disease is having a daily regimen of sunscreen, wearing UV protective clothing, sunglasses, and limiting time in direct sunlight.

Melanoma Research Alliance President & CEO Michael Kaplan explained that there is a lot of misinformation about sunscreens.

“Despite the hype, experts agree that everyone should be diligent about applying — and reapplying – sunscreen throughout the day to make sure they are protected. The best sunscreen continues to be the one you’ll wear every day,” he said, in a prepared statement.

Consumer confidence in the safety of sunscreen has been muddled with recent attention focused on a new FDA proposed rule that would update labeling requirements and the list of approved sunscreens. However, even as the FDA moves through this process and retests existing ingredients, the guidelines still remain the same: choose a sunscreen that is at least SPF 30, broad spectrum, and water resistant.

The Melanoma Research Foundation, a member of the Coalition, has indicated the following facts about the disease and its prevention:

• About 90% of melanomas are preventable with proper sun safety habits.
• On average, a person’s risk for melanoma doubles if they have had more than 5 sunburns.
• More than a third of Americans report getting sunburned at least once each year.
• Melanoma is most often found in the skin and is 1 of the most serious types of skin cancer, as it can aggressively spread throughout the body.

For more information about prevention guidelines, please visit the Skin Cancer Foundation’swebsite.

Reference

Sunscreen is a Critical Tool in the Fight Against Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers [news release]. BusinessWire website. Published May 06, 2019.https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190506005643/en. Accessed May 07, 2019.