Outdoor Workers May Have Increased Risk For Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer

According to a new study published online in the British Journal of Dermatology, outdoor workers have a significantly increased risk for developing skin cancer compared with indoor workers. In a meta-analysis involving data from some 23 studies, researchers discovered a 40% increased risk for outdoor workers to develop basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, compared with indoor workers. What's more, the analysis showed that the farther away from the equator one lived and the less UV-light exposure one received, there was a decreased risk in developing basal cell carcinoma.

Are you at risk for skin cancer?

Just a few minutes of exposure to UV rays over the course of time can have a profound impact on the look and feel of your skin, as well as your overall health. Research has shown that overexposure to UV radiation (UVR) results in rough spots called actinic keratoses, which may be precancerous skin lesions, as well as premature aging, which causes the skin to become thick, wrinkled, and leathery.

Sunscreens do not cause cancer

The American Academy of Dermatology published a press release on May 23 indicating that, despite recent concerns from in vitro (test tube) studies and one unpublished report using mice, there is no evidence to suggest that retinyl palmitate, a Vitamin A-compound found in many suncreens, increases the risk of skin cancer in patients. Retinyl palmitate is not an active drug ingredient in sunscreen; however it is used for cosmetic purposes as an antioxidant to improve product performance against the aging effects of UV exposure, and/or to enhance product aesthetic qualities. Read more here:

http://www.aad.org/stories-and-news/news-releases/sunscreens-remain-safe-effective-form-of-sun-protection

Young Women, Teens Continue To Tan Regardless Of Health Risks

"Despite warnings about melanoma risk, young women and teens still prefer to tan," according to a survey from the American Academy of Dermatology. The survey found that, "among almost 4000 girls ages 14 to 22, the vast majority (81%) said they sunbathe outdoors either frequently or occassionally." Exposure to UV radiation is the leading risk factor for skin cancer, yet - despite this knowledge - droves of teens and young women are flocking to tanning bed facilities and beaches or pools to tan every year.