How to Keep Teens Safe From the Sun

Tuesday, June 05, 2012

GoLocalProv Health Team

Melanoma is the most common cancer in young women between 25-29, and much of the damage begins in their teens, according to experts. Photo: Peter Organisciak/flickr.

It only takes one blistering sunburn to increase your risk of skin cancer, according to experts. Just one. And with melanoma, a potentially fatal skin cancer, the most common cancer in young women between the ages of 25 and 29, much of the damage from the sun in these young women will already have occurred in their teens. Although more adults are using sunscreens during outdoor activities, many are unaware of how important it is to make sure that their children are getting the necessary skin protection.

Cindy L. Schwartz, MD, MPH, director of pediatric hematology-oncology, Hasbro Children's Hospital, spoke to GoLocal about how to help teens avoid sun exposure that could become very dangerous.

What are the 3 most important things a teen can do to minimize sun exposure?

Sun exposure can be minimized by 1) limiting time in the sun around midday when rays are strongest, 2) wearing sun hats and protective clothing when possible and 3) applying sun tan lotion (SPF >30) before going outside, especially in spring and summer, even if it appears cloudy.

What do teens forget when it comes to tanning?

Tanning is a response of the skin to damage induced by the sun. While it may "look good" for a bit, there is damage that will injure the skin in the long run both increasing the risk for cancer—and for aging.

Is there more or less pressure on teens these days to look tan, in your experience?

There appears to be increasing pressure to look tan. Between 1999 and 2009, one study has shown that the number of high school students who did not use sunscreen increased from 57% to 69% (Jones SE, J Adolesc Health 2012 50(3), 304.)

What are some signs parents should watch for that might indicate their kids have sun damage?

Excessive tanning (caused by sun or tanning salons) or sunburns are of concern in the immediate period. Another sign of sun damage, over a longer time, is increased freckling.

How much more are teens at risk for cancer later in life if they over-expose themselves to sun at a younger age?

Exact numbers are difficult to obtain. One study showed a 2-fold increase risk of melanoma in people with a history of sunburns. Another showed a 3-4 fold increased risk in people who were unaware of the risk of sun-exposure (and therefore likely did not protect themselves).

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How to Keep Teens Safe From the Sun

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