How to have more fun in the sun: UV Safety Awareness Month

Do you know the warning signs of skin cancer? July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and it’s important to know that anyone, no matter their skin tone, can get skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer among Veterans and the leading form of cancer in the United States. It’s important to understand the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, recognize what skin cancer might look like as it develops, and know how VA can help. 

UV Safety: Knowing the facts about Skin Cancer  

 Skin cancer can be divided into two groups: melanoma and nonmelanoma (also known as keratinocyte cancers). Most nonmelanoma skin cancers are either basal cell or squamous cell cancers. Basal and squamous cell cancers can usually be cured, but they often lead to scarring and can be disfiguring. In the United States, about 3 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer, or keratinocyte carcinoma, are diagnosed each year (Skin Cancer Screening – NCI). 

Melanoma, while less common, causes the most skin cancer deaths as it can spread to other parts of the body, including the internal organs. Melanoma also can occur anywhere on the body—even in areas that are never exposed to UV radiation.   

The three most important risk factors for skin cancer are UV radiation, immunosuppression and genetic factors. Most cases of skin cancer are caused by overexposure to UV rays from the sun, tanning beds or sunlamps. Veterans may be at increased risk for skin cancers depending on their level of exposure to the sun and their role in the military. 

When found early, skin cancer is more easily treated, making it even more important to know the warning signs.  

You should let your VA provider know of any changes on your skin or any concerns about your skin, and they can check for lesions with warning signs of melanoma and other skin conditions.  

Dr. Jesse Keller, an oncologist at the John Cochran VA Medical Center in St. Louis, specializes in the treatment of melanoma and skin cancers and encourages Veterans to conduct regular skin checks. Keller  emphasized that Veterans at risk of or facing a skin cancer diagnosis can receive care through VA’s National TeleOncology Program (NTO), regardless of where they live.  

“It’s best to receive cancer care from a specialist who is an expert in your type of cancer, and NTO can provide skin cancer care and services to you,” Dr. Keller said. 

Routine screening for skin cancer 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has concluded there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against routine screening, which consists of a total body examination by a doctor, to find skin cancers early. This conclusion applies only to people who do not have a history of skin cancer and who do not have any suspicious moles or other spots (Screening for Skin Cancer | Skin Cancer | CDC). However, it is important to notify your provider if you have any concerns about or changes in your skin.    

Fast UV safety tips for preventing skin cancer  

By protecting yourself from harmful UV radiation, you can prevent or lower your risk of skin cancer. Here are some tips from the Veterans Health Library to get you started: 

• Use sunscreen. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher every day to your skin, even on cloudy days. Use lip balm or lipstick with an SPF of 30 or higher. While sunscreens extend the length of time you can be outdoors before your skin starts to get damaged and turn red, they don’t give you total protection, so include all the tips in your routine. 
• Wear protective clothing and eyewear. Long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses can help shield your skin from the sun. Make sure your sunglasses have 99 to 100% UVA and UVB (ultraviolet A and B) ray protection. 
• Watch the clock. In the U.S., stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. 
• Head for the shade or make your own. Use an umbrella when sitting or strolling. 
• Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds expose you to high levels of UV radiation and significantly increase your risk of skin cancer. 
• Be careful near reflective surfaces. Know that the sun’s rays can reflect off sand, water, pavement and snow. Reflected rays can still harm your skin, so take extra care when you are near reflective surfaces. 

VA Resources for UV Safety and Skin Cancer Prevention and Care  

VA offers resources to help Veterans lower their risk of skin cancer and provides treatment options to those who are diagnosed with it. 

Veterans Health Library: The Veterans Health Library offers tips and guidelines on how you can act today to help prevent skin cancer for yourself and your children. Remember that people of all ages and backgrounds are at risk.  

VA Whole Health Library: Whole Health empowers people thorough mindful awareness and self-care. VA’s Whole Health Library provides resources on skin cancer, including prevention tips such as diet recommendations, risk factors, early detection strategies and treatment options to help Veterans manage and reduce their risk of skin cancer. 

Women Veterans Health Care: Women Veterans can access specialized care and support for skin cancer through the Women Veterans Health Program.  

VA National Oncology Program: Veterans can receive comprehensive cancer care, including recommended cancer screenings, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care.  

National TeleOncology (NTO): NTO brings world-class oncology care and services to Veterans, regardless of where they live and have sub-specialized treatment teams specifically for skin cancer.   

Clinical Pathways: Clinical Pathways are a decision support tool that bridge this gap by translating published evidence into standardized treatment process maps to help guide treatment decisions. 

UV Safety Awareness Month reminds us to protect our skin from harmful UV radiation. By taking precautions, knowing the warning signs and using VA resources, Veterans can lower their risk and stay healthy.