Summer Time Blues Part 1--The Sun and You

School is out and summertime is here. Many people will be spending more time outdoors and some precautions need to be considered in light of this. Sun exposure continues to gather attention due to the health concerns from too much ultraviolet light. Increased UV exposure can lead to short term problems such as sunburn but long-term problems are more of a concern.

Cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are common in long term sun exposed areas. These are common and can be serious but generally can be controlled if attention is given soon enough. Melanoma is more of a concern as it is very difficult to treat and can be fatal.

Of concern to parents, children who get sunburned have a very much higher risk of developing melanoma than those who do not have a history of sunburn while younger. It is very prudent to avoid sunburn in any age group but it seems especially important in children and adolescents. Remember your sunscreen and use it often. Remember the sunscreeen will wash off while swimming and playing in the water as well as with heavy sweating so remember to reapply it.

If you are concerned about a skin lesion and the possibility of a skin cancer, please visit a health care professional for further evaluation. If you are fair skinned and are blonde or red-haired, you are more prone to skin problems from sun exposure. If you have had quite a bit of sun exposure in the past and are at fairly high risk for skin lesions, you should consider an annual skin exam by your family doctor or a dermatologist.

If you need help with your skin health, come by and see us at Gumtree Medical Clinic. We are located in the Fairpark District in Tupelo and at the Noyes Family Medicine Clinic in Corinth. Have fun in the sun but make sure it is safe fun!