News You Can Use

Keys to healthy skin are prevention and early detection

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Kasia Haupt
June 22, 2004

STARKVILLE, Miss.—As the sun seems to deliver more heat each waking summer day, persons who spend significant time outdoors must take extra precautions to protect their skin from dangerous ultraviolet rays, says a Mississippi State health educator.

Amy Thompson of the university’s kinesiology department said prevention and early detection are two critical allies in the battle against skin cancer. She recommends monthly skin checks using the “ABCDE” model, including:

—Asymmetry. Mentally divide the questionable mole lengthwise into halves. If the sides are not identical, there may be a problem.

—Border. Healthy moles have a smooth, circular border, not a jagged one.

—Color. Look for inconsistent or abnormal colors such as blue, pink, or gray.

—Diameter. Be wary of moles larger than 6 millimeters, the size of a pencil eraser.

—Elevation. If the surface is uneven or raised above the skin, let your physician take a look.

Thompson says persons with fair skin; freckles; red or blonde hair; a tendency to sunburn easily; or a family history of skin cancer are considered at special risk for skin damage or worse. Regardless of the risk, anyone experiencing sun exposure should wear a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, she advises.

Thompson recommends screens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Whichever brand is used, remember to reapply often, especially after swimming.

“Even on a cloudy day, between 60-80 percent of the sun’s rays reach you,” she says. “It’s important to use sunscreen whenever you’re outdoors or if you’re in water, which reflects the sun.”

A “lifetime” of sun damage can be done by age 18, so she advises parents to take special sun precautions with their children. Also, don’t forget to protect the eyes by wearing proper sun glasses.