Active Lifestyle Reminder: Don't Forget Skin Safety

Active people typically are concerned about bone, joint and muscle health, but they often overlook the importance of skin protection. Studies indicate that marathoners and other athletes have higher rates of skin cancer than the general public due to increased sun exposure.

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is associated with 90 percent of skin cancers, the most common form of cancer in the United States. Yet a few simple prevention strategies can dramatically reduce risk without compromising participation

We encourage people to go outside and be active, we just want them to be smart about it and take the following precautions:

• Minimize exposure, especially during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.  And don't be fooled by overcast days. Most UV rays penetrate clouds.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants and hats with full brims to protect your head, neck, ears, nose and shoulders - the most common sites for cancers. Laundry aids can wash UV protection into clothing.
• Wear properly applied sunscreen that is SPF of 30 or higher. Most people need a thick coating every two hours or so.
• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to prevent eye diseases such as cataracts. Sunglasses probably are just as important as sunscreen.
• Have an annual visual exam by a dermatologist and a semiannual exam if the patient has had a previous skin cancer or has a family history of skin cancer.

Although active men and women tend to be very health conscious, they often don't think about skin safety.  Yet they are among the most vulnerable populations for serious sun damage.

By Michael Conroy, MD