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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS |
| Why is CDC launching a skin cancer prevention initiative? |
| CDC is launching a skin cancer prevention initiative for two reasons: First, skin cancer has become a major public health problem. In fact, one million new cases of skin cancer are expected to be diagnosed this year alone. Second, it is a highly preventable disease. CDC hopes to increase awareness of the things people can do to prevent skin cancer by protecting themselves from harmful UV rays. |
| What is causing the increase in skin cancer? |
| The primary risk factor for skin cancer is sun exposure. The reasons for the increase in recent years in the number of people diagnosed with skin cancer are still scientifically uncertain. Scientists are continuing to explore possible contributing factors such as ozone depletion and the amount of time people spend outdoors without adequate sun protection. |
| What are the major types of skin cancer? |
| Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the three major types of skin cancer. Malignant melanoma is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer and causes most skin cancer-related deaths. All skin cancers are associated with sun exposure, and melanoma, in particular, is related to severe sunburning and possibly intense, sporadic sun exposure. These types of skin cancers are preventable; and when detected early, have a high cure rate. |
| Who is most at risk of developing skin cancer? |
| Although anyone can get skin cancer, people with certain physical traits and family history are especially at risk. The main risk factors for skin cancer are light skin color, a family or personal history of skin cancer, chronic exposure to sun, and a history of severe sunburns. |
| Why is CDC targeting young adults? |
| Many young adults are putting themselves at risk for skin cancer by not protecting themselves from the sun's damaging UV rays. Some studies show that 18 to 25 year-olds are among those people protecting themselves the least. By reaching young adults with sun protection messages, CDC also reaches children and teens that model the behavior of those who are several years older. |
| What can Americans do to protect themselves? |
| There are several easy ways to protect one's skin from the sun and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Seek shade and stay out of the midday sun whenever possible; wear protective clothing including a hat, shirt, and pants; and use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 that offers both UVA and UVB protection. |
| Under what types of weather conditions do people need to worry about sun exposure? |
| Protecting oneself from the sun is important year round. The sun's UV rays are present on cloudy and overcast days, as well as on bright and sunny days. Also, these rays reflect off water, cement, sand, and snow. Generally, the sun's rays are strongest and most dangerous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight savings time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during standard time) in the continental United States. |
| What is known about young adults' attitudes about sunburns and tanning? |
| Through focus group research with 18 to 25 year-olds, CDC learned that many young people are not greatly concerned about sunburns. Many focus group participants reported getting severe sunburns during outdoor activities that lasted longer than planned, or in non-beach situations in which sunscreen was not at hand. Despite research that shows that sun bathing as well as burning can increase one's risk of skin cancer, many young adults believe that if they are able to tan, they are not at risk. |
| Are minorities such as African Americans and Hispanic Americans at risk for skin cancer? |
| Yes, African American and Hispanic Americans can develop skin cancer, including melanoma. The melanoma rate among African Americans is one-tenth the rate of white Americans; and among Hispanic Americans it is one-third to one-fifth the rate of white Americans. People with fair skin are at highest risk of developing skin cancer. |
| Are sunscreens effective? |
| Sunscreens are effective in preventing sunburns if used properly. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 that offers UVA and UVB protection. Remember, sunscreens are an important part of a sun protection strategy, along with seeking shade or avoiding the midday sun, and wearing protective clothing, such as a hat, long-sleeved shirt, or pants. |
| Are tanning beds a safe alternative to sun exposure? |
| No, they are not. |
Nicholas
A. DeRosa |
Oneida County
Department of Health |
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© 2003 Oneida County, New York, USA |
