By SHARON McMAHON
Be Well
“In a thousand years, archaeologists will dig up tanning beds and think we fried people as punishment.” – Olivia Wilde, actress
While my article quotes are usually from philosophers, sages, and the like, I found this one to be both on target and rather humorous even though this is a very serious topic.
I would be shocked to learn of anyone who had not heard from many sources of the link between sun damage and skin cancer. I also find it at least surprising to learn that many people seem to either not believe the statistics or shrug their shoulders in pursuit of the “glowing tan” – and unfortunately, most of those people are female.
If you are of a “certain age” as I am, you may just be at the beginning of the experience of seeing the results of sun damage. Make no mistake that regardless of your heritage or skin type, we are all susceptible to sun damage that may lead to skin cancer and melanoma.
In my case, although I am 1/16 Native American (before you call me Pocahontas, I do have proof) my Celtic DNA has persevered and my pale, freckled skin has never cooperated fully with tanning. As a child, I did get a bit of a slight tan, but that was after many hours outside and mostly at Forest Park Pool. Great memories, but during the teenage years we used lots of baby oil and iodine while “tanning” – some of you relate to that and others (younger!) reading that may say “WHAT?” Yes it’s true, sigh, we did it. Thankfully I was never a fan of the tanning beds, another source of skin damage and skin cancer. Combine sun and smoking (ick) and talk about double trouble! I won’t even go down that road – not enough space in this column!
In recent years, having come to my senses about many things, I have made sure to see my dermatologist annually. A couple of years ago, she noted something that she felt required further inspection and was thus removed for a biopsy – a very small item that had gone unnoticed by me. She explained that it might be a melanoma, so of course, I was on pins and needles for about a week until I learned it was benign and thankfully, gone. However, that incident has reinforced my determination to be more watchful and to indeed see my dermatologist every year at least.
Remember, and this is quite important, be vigilant about wearing sunscreen, checking your skin, and see your doctor because, thankfully, most skin cancer issues can be resolved early if you follow the recommendations. There is a plethora of “bottle tans” now available on the market, so that may be option for you to explore while in search of a “healthy” tan!
Lastly, I did learn something very surprising from my dermatologist: Most skin cancer issues among adults result from sun exposure at a young age: childhood through early teen years.
Well, for me and others, there is little I can do about that, but I encourage you to make sure that all children in your care or over whom you may have influence are regularly wearing sunscreen and limiting time in the sun. I know – easier said than done, but it is vital to their health and well-being as well as their future. (And, please, do not allow your dogs to “enjoy” the hot summer sun; they cannot perspire as we do, and the hot pavement will burn their sensitive footpads.)
We all love summer, and if you are like me and you enjoy feeling the breezes and seeing the sunshine out your windows, the long days of summer, and sometimes feeling some warm rays on your skin, then enjoy our brief summertime season here in Indiana, but care for your largest organ – your skin. Good food, good sleep, less stress, and sunscreen make for a healthier you – enjoy!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.