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Ultraviolet Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can cause damage to our skin and eyes, both in short-term and long-term effects. Short-term results include sunburns and tanning. However, long-term exposure can lead to changes in skin including aging, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, dark patches, and actinic keratoses.

There are two main types of skin cancers which together is the most common of all cancers. Melanoma skin cancer begins in the melanocytes which produce a skin pigment called melanin. Melanin also protects the deeper layers of the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. If detected early, melanoma is almost always curable. However, it is much more dangerous than other skin cancers because it can spread to other cells much more rapidly than other skin cancers, causing the majority of skin cancer deaths. The other type, nonmelanoma skin cancer is found in either basal or squamous cells. These develop on sun-exposed areas and can grow either fast or slow, but rarely spread to other parts of the body.

Actinic keratoses formed through short-term sun exposure can lead to long-term damage as well. They are small rough or scaly parts that generally develop on the face, ears, hands, and arms of mostly fair-skinned people that grow slowly. However, sometimes they turn into squamous cell cancer. For that reason, it is very important for everyone to examine their skin monthly.

Follow the ABCD rule for early detection of skin cancer:

  • A is for ASYMMETRY - One-half of a mark does not match the other.
  • B is for BORDER - The edges of the mark are irregular or notched.
  • C is for COLOR - The color of the mark is not uniform all over.
  • D is for DIAMETER - The area is growing larger or is larger than 6 millimeters.
It is important to check all exposed areas of skin, including the back. To prevent the effects of ultraviolet radiation, use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher over all exposed areas of skin, especially the face and neck.