By CINDY LADAGE
Illinois Correspondent SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — This summer, the American Cancer Society (ACS) warns farmers to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap.
For many on the farm, working outside during the most dangerous times of the day - from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. - is necessary.
By taking precautions, farmers and others can reduce their risk of skin cancer by “slipping on protective clothing, slopping on some sunscreen, slapping on a hat and wrapping on a pair of sunglasses is a must.”
“Skin Cancer is something we should all be aware of,” said Shayne Squires ACS regional communications manager. “Exposure - while young - certainly contributes to the disease, but staying covered as you get older is also very important. The American Cancer Society encourages everyone to use some form of sun protection in order to decrease the likelihood of developing skin cancer.”
ACS stated that the majority of skin cancers are due to unprotected and excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure.
“Prevention must be a priority,” said Dr. Clement Rose, president of the ACS’s Illinois Division. “Grabbing the sun block and protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays needs to be a habit that starts early and continues throughout your lifetime.”
The ACS estimates more than 1 million cases of basal cell, or squamous skin cancer (nonmelanoma), and nearly 60,000 cases of malignant melanoma (the most serious form of skin cancer) are expected to be diagnosed in 2007 in the United States.
In Illinois, the ACS expects more than 1,500 people will be diagnosed with melanoma and approximately 500 are expected to die from the disease. Light-skinned caucasians are at a higher risk than African-Americans but the ACS warns that it’s still important that people with darker skin also limit their sun exposure.
Keep children covered, as well. The ACS stated that research shows a link between severe sunburns in childhood and an increased risk of melanoma and other skin cancers later in life. Melanoma is currently the second-leading cause of cancer among 13-30 year olds.
ACS facts show immediate adverse effects of excessive exposure are sunburn and eye damage. Long-term effects include premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.
There are signs to watch for to detect skin cancer early. Prevention is a key factor because skin cancer is highly curable if detected in its early stages.
The ACS advised people to examine their skin once a month and get familiar with the pattern of moles, freckles and “beauty marks.” Be alert to changes in the number, size, shape or color of spots on the skin. These types of changes are the most important warning signs of skin cancer. Other warning signs include a sore that does not heal, a new growth or lesions that ulcerate, scab, bleed or itch.
The ACS said to protect from skin cancer, avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is most intense. Protect skin with clothing, including a long-sleeve shirt and a hat with a broad brim.
Use sunscreens with a SPF factor of at least 15. Liberally apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outside so skin can absorb the protective agents and reapply at least every two hours or after sweating or swimming.
Wrap-around sunglasses with at least 99 percent UV absorption provide the best protection for the eyes and the skin area around the eyes.
Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps, which provide an additional source of UV radiation.
For information from the ACS, call 800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org
This farm news was published in the July 11, 2007 issue of Farm World, serving Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee. |
