But today we know that truly healthy skin is not suntanned, and it s not sunburned. Doctors now know that even the mildest suntan means damaged skin. It indicates skin that is a step closer to developing cancer because the sun s damage to skin is progressive. It s not just blondes or redheads who are at risk for skin cancer. Anyone can get it, especially those who are in the sun a lot.
Skin cancer is serious.
Skin cancer kills. And farmers, like yourself, are at increased risk for skin cancer because they are outdoors nearly every day of the year. Just as there are ways to manage your farm operation, there are ways to control you skin s health. An SPF of 15 means you can safely stay out in the sun 15 times longer than you would be able to without sunblock. Also, because the sun s harmful effects accumulate over the year, it s very important that you regularly apply sunscreen to your children each day and encourage them to wear protective clothing.