UV Safety Month: Protecting Your Skin and Health This Summer

by | Jul 26, 2024 | screening, Skin Cancer, Uncategorized

July is UV Safety Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. As the sun shines brighter and we spend more time outdoors, it’s essential to understand how UV exposure can affect our skin and overall health. At Premier Surgical Associates, with locations in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, TN, we emphasize the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of skin tumors and skin cancers.

UV Safety Month

The Dangers of UV Radiation

UV radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin damage and can lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer. There are two main types of UV rays that affect the skin:

  • UVA Rays: These rays penetrate deep into the skin and are responsible for premature aging and wrinkles. They can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.
  • UVB Rays: These rays primarily affect the outer layer of the skin and are the main cause of sunburn. They play a significant role in the development of skin cancer.

Both types of UV rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and the potential development of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Preventing Sun Damage

Protecting your skin from UV radiation is crucial to prevent sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Here are some effective strategies to keep your skin safe:

  • Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can provide additional protection against UV rays. Look for clothing with a high UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating.
  • Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. Seek shade under umbrellas, trees, or shelters.
  • Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can be just as harmful as the sun. Choose sunless tanning products instead.

The Importance of Early Detection

Despite taking preventive measures, it’s essential to remain vigilant for signs of skin damage and skin cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks with your dermatologist can help identify potential issues early. Look for the following warning signs:

  • New Growths: Pay attention to any new moles or growths on your skin.
  • Changes in Existing Moles: Monitor moles for changes in size, shape, color, or texture.
  • Non-Healing Sores: Watch for sores that do not heal or persist for more than a few weeks.
  • Itching or Bleeding: Be aware of moles or growths that itch, bleed, or become tender.

Treatment of Skin Tumors and Skin Cancers

At Premier Surgical Associates, we provide comprehensive treatment options for skin tumors and skin cancers. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, our experienced team is equipped to treat your issue using advanced techniques. The most common types of surgeries used to treat skin cancers include:

  • Excision: The growth and its surrounding border of tissue are removed.
  • Curettage and Electrodesiccation: The growth is scraped off and the tumor site is treated with an electric needle to destroy remaining cancer cells. This technique is normally for smaller lesions.
  • Lymph Node Surgery:  Lymph nodes are removed to check for cancer or if cancer cells have spread to the lymph nodes.

UV Safety Month serves as a timely reminder of the importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. By taking preventive measures and being proactive about early detection, you can reduce the risk of sun damage and skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, don’t hesitate to reach out to Premier Surgical Associates for expert care and treatment.

Stay safe this summer and protect your skin. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our offices in Knoxville, Cleveland, or Johnson City, TN. Your skin health is our priority.