Sunscreen Reduces Skin Cancer Risk

A new message by the Public Access to SunScreens (PASS) Coalition—comprised of public health organizations, physician groups, sunscreen manufacturers, and citizens—emphasizes the importance of sunscreen in reducing the risk of melanoma, other skin cancers, and premature aging.¹

A warning such as this is critical, according to the coalition. In 2019, more than 192,000 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma and over 7,200 Americans will die from the disease. This is a 7.7% increase from 2018.¹

Pharmacists can counsel patients on the best way to reduce the risk of this disease: having a daily regimen of sunscreen, wearing UV protective clothing, sunglasses, and limiting time in direct sunlight.

There is a lot of misinformation about sunscreen, according to Melanoma Research Alliance Chief Executive Officer and President Michael Kaplan.¹

“Despite the hype, experts agree that everyone should be diligent about applying and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day to make sure they are protected. The best sunscreen continues to be the one you’ll wear every day,” he said in a statement.¹

Consumer confidence in sunscreen safety has been muddled with recent attention focused on a new FDA-proposed rule that would update labeling requirements and the list of approved sunscreens. However, as the FDA moves through this process and retests existing ingredients, the guidelines remain: choose a sunscreen that is broad spectrum, has at least a sun protection factor of 30, and is water-resistant.¹

The Skin Cancer Foundation offered additional guidelines for skin cancer prevention that can be shared with patients²:

• Apply 1 oz (2 tbs) of sunscreen to the entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours or after excessive sweating or swimming.
• Avoid tanning and do not use ultraviolet (UV) tanning beds. • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Do not get sunburned.
• Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should only be used on babies over the age of 6 months.
• Perform a head-to-toe skin examination every month.
• See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam.
• Seek shade, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.

For more OTC recommendations from pharmacists, visit OTCguide.net.

References

• Sunscreen is a Critical Tool in the Fight Against Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers [news release]. BusinessWire website. Published May 06, 2019. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190506005643/en. Accessed May 07, 2019.
• Skin Cancer Foundation. Prevention Guidelines. SkinCancer.org. https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/prevention-guidelines. Accessed May 10, 2019.