Winter sunshine a risk for cancer
While many Canadian men are layering up in flannel shirts and long johns this winter, results from Melanoma Network of Canada survey show they are forgetting one important layer of protection: sunscreen.
Just four per cent of men wear sunscreen in the winter, putting them at risk of developing skin cancer from winter sun exposure.
Ninety per cent of melanomas, the deadliest form of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to UV radiation from light and sunlight.
Winter conditions create a particularly advantageous environment for intensifying UV radiation. Snow reflects as much as 80 per cent of UV radiation and Canadians who spend a lot of time outdoors in the winter may not realize they are putting themselves at risk by not wearing sunscreen.
An estimated 5,500 Canadians will be diagnosed with melanoma this year and 950 will die from it.
The survival rate for melanoma is high if it is detected early and, unlike many cancers, melanoma is clearly visible on the skin.
“Exposure to winter sun is dangerous because UV radiation can’t be seen or felt,” said Annette Cyr, chairwoman of the Melanoma Network of Canada.
Tips for spending time in the winter sun include:
* Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed areas, and apply just before going outside.
* Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after excessive sweating.
* Protect yourself with clothing, a hat with a brim, and sunglasses year-round.
* Check your skin monthly to detect malignant melanoma.
More information on winter sun safety is available at www.melanomanetwork.ca.
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