Cancer of the skin is by far the most common of all cancers in the United States with melanoma being the 5^th most common type of cancer in Oregon.

Frequent cool and overcast days may give Oregonians a false sense of security, but protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a must, rain or shine.

The most effective way to prevent skin cancer is to limit exposure to UV rays:

• Spend more time in the shade, especially during late morning through the afternoon.
• Cover up as much as possible with clothes, hats, sunglasses, etc.
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants or skirts can provide protection.
  • Clothes made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection.
  • Get a hat that shades the face, scalp, ears and neck.
  • Look for sunglasses that block close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
• Avoid indoor and outdoor tanning.
• Regardless of how you tan (via sun exposure or tanning bed): tanned skin = damaged skin.
• Apply water resistant sunscreen/sunblock with a sun protective factor (SPF) of at least 30 for children 6 months of age or older.
  • Look for a product that offers broad spectrum coverage (both UVA and UVB protection).
  • Apply sunscreen generously 30 minutes before going outdoors.
  • Reapply during the day, especially after your child swims or exercises.
  • Sunscreen is not meant to allow kids to spend more time in the sun.

Babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight.  Move your baby to the shade under a tree, umbrella or stroller canopy.  Dress babies in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs and use brimmed hats that shade the neck to prevent sunburn.

What about vitamin D?

Not all children and adolescents get enough sunlight, particularly during certain times of the year and in areas like the Pacific NW! In addition, your child’s own skin characteristics can affect the vitamin D that his or her own body makes.

Studies suggest that using sunscreen or sunblock limits the amount of vitamin D our bodies produce. However, UV radiation is the leading cause of most skin cancers, so we recommend getting vitamin D from other sources, such as:

• Vitamin D-fortified milk
• Vitamin D-fortified orange juice
• Vitamin D-fortified cereals or yogurts
• Eggs
• Fish/fish oils

Always consult your pediatrician before starting any new supplements and talk to your doctor about finding a balance between brief periods of sun exposure and sunscreen use.

Additional resources can be found at:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Sun-Safety.aspx
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/children.htm
https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Sun-Safety-and-Protection.aspx

This blog is not a substitute for medical advice. Be sure to talk to your child’s medical provider with any questions.