Published : 09 Oct 2024, 20:13

Islands are facing a concerning rise in skin cancer rates

A recent study shows alarming news about skin cancer for island dwellers and people randomly visiting there. Experts stated that prolonged exposure to high levels of UV light without dermatological precautions on the islands is leading to a high skin cancer rate.

Since the 1990s, the rates of skin cancer have increased by 195%, particularly among adults aged 55 and over.

Health experts say fair-skinned people are more prone to developing skin cancer than blacks. Men often develop skin cancer on their backs, while women visiting the beach frequently develop it on their legs.

Jenny Cataroche, head of Guernsey's public health intelligence, emphasized that skin cancers are directly linked to UV exposure from the sun, highlighting the importance of islanders enjoying the sun safely. The message includes prevention measures like covering up, wearing a hat, avoiding the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., using sunscreen, and early detection by monitoring changes in your skin and consulting a doctor if needed.

Dr. Friedman, a clinical instructor of dermatology at the New York University School of Medicine and a member of the group on preventive dermatology of the American Academy of Dermatology, said, “People need to become more sun-aware. You don't have to walk on the sunny side of the street.''
He also added, ''It's not cute to have your baby walking naked on the beach and getting sunburned; although it looks cute, it's not so good for the child.”

With the daily rise in tourists on the islands, health experts recommend implementing preventive measures to reduce these health risks.


Fighting Cancer Desk
Fighting Cancer Desk