Watch out Spring Breakers! Millions of new cases of skin cancer are expected to be finally reported this year. At The Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology this week, and today in particular, new statistics pointing to an increase in non-melanoma skin cancer and why young people are at an increased risk of developing this disease was presented.

The health consequences of tanning have been shown to have little impact on their behavior when it comes to sun exposure. But with spring break around the corner, dermatologists are urging students to practice proper sun protection and understand the importance of early detection of skin cancer, the most common type of cancer.

In the United States, the timing of spring break in tertiary institutions may range from the beginning of March to the later part of April, but many schools are in recess for at least one of the weeks in March. Some schools call this “March break” if it occurs in a middle week in March.

Brett M. Coldiron, M.D., FAAD, clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, Ohio, presented data demonstrating treatment performed for non-melanoma skin cancers in the United States nearly doubled from 1994 to 2006. Specifically, the total number of new non-melanoma skin cancers in 2006 was estimated to be more than 3.5 million.

Coldiron stated:

“While the American Cancer Society estimates more than 2 million new skin cancers will be diagnosed this year, our research shows that the annual incidence in 2008 could actually have been 3.7 million. This is especially troubling as our estimate only includes Medicare patients, which means this could be even higher when young people are included in the count.”

The doctor continues:

“As dermatologists, we know that it is hard to change behavior, even in the face of proven scientific evidence. Attitudes about tanning are no different, as studies have shown that even though people know that overexposure to ultraviolet light can lead to skin cancer, they still tan. We need young people to realize that tanning for cosmetic reasons now will ultimately negatively affect their appearance later and even increase their risk for skin cancer.”

It is important to be smart about the sun’s rays. Generously apply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin and wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.

Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade. Use extra caution near the water, as it reflects the damaging rays of the sun which can increase your chance of sunburn. Most importantly, self examine. If you notice anything changing, growing, or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.

Otherwise, enjoy your time off students!

Source: American Academy of Dermatology

Written By Sy Kraft, B.A.