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published a press release on May 23 indicating that, despite recent concerns from in vitro (test tube) studies and one unpublished report using mice, there is no evidence to suggest that retinyl palmitate, a Vitamin A-compound found in many suncreens, increases the risk of skin cancer in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.

UK Fines Teens for Tanning

The Sunbed Regulation Act 2010 now stops people under 18 years of age from using tanning beds in salons, leisure centres, gyms and hotels and fines businesses in England up to 20,000 pounds if they are caught. This comes in direct response to new figures from Cancer research UK that show the rates of melanoma in young people continue to skyrocket. Two Britons under age 25 are diagnosed with melanoma every day, and the current rates of melanoma have tripled in individuals aged 15 to 34 since the late 1970's.

Adult Acne Answers

Dr. Adam Mamelak was interviewed by Elevate Magazine about some of the myths and effective treatment strategies for controlling adult acne. A much more common problem than many appreciate! Read the full story here:

http://www.epaperflip.com/aglaia/viewer.aspx?docid=4b0dcd792fc342a2a0d9319016113421&page=40

More noticing the poor access to skin cancer treatment in Ontario

One community activist recently posted his opinion on the deficiencies of skin cancer treatment and access to care in Ontario. With more provincial funding being dedicated to cancer therapy, why is skin cancer being ignored? Read the full story here in The Ottawa Citizen:

http://communities.canada.com/ottawacitizen/blogs/bulldog/archive/2011/03/05/guest-post-community-activist-gary-ludington.aspx

More docs support the tanning ban

The American Academy of Pediatrics has joined the American Academy of Dermatology, The World Health Organization, and American Medical Association in a call to ban minors from tanning salons. The risks of UV light exposure and developing skin cancer are now well recognized. Read the full story here:

www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/02/28/tanning.skin.cancer/index.html?hpt=C2

Victoria first to ban minors using tanning beds - Parentcentral.ca

Victoria first to ban minors using tanning beds - Parentcentral.ca

Things I learned from my mother...

A new study published in the Archives of Dermatology journal reports that most young women first visit the tanning salon with their mothers. With continuing efforts aimed at curbing tanning habits, researchers wanted to know where tanning parlor proprietors first learned to tan. Read the full story here:
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/28/the-tans-that-bond/?partner=rss&emc=rss