Typically, there are one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States, including 41,600 new cases of melanoma. The American Academy of Dermatology has made a commitment to promote new education legislation at national and local levels to communicate safe sun messages. Derm Update '98, Mark Naylor, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, University of Oklahoma, Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, reported on new theories regarding sunscreens as a cause of melanoma. There is great concern among dermatologists that sunscreens alone do not protect against melanoma and other skin cancers. Some individuals may ignore suspicious marks or lesions as potentially dangerous because they feel that sunscreen alone provides all the protection they need.
All skin cancers are harmful, and malignant melanoma can be deadly if left untreated.
Decreases in ozone density over the United States makes UVB ultraviolet light a prime suspect in the dramatic upswing in amphibian abnormalities noted in recent decades. This emphasizes the continuing need to improve public awareness. Sun exposure in early childhood and adolescence contributes to skin cancer. Sunburn is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. Skin type and family history cannot be changed, but everyone can control their sun safety habits and take precautions for protection.