Breaking: World Day Against Leather Cancer Highlights Urgent Need for Sun Protection
June 13 marks the World Day Against Leather Cancer, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of prevention and adoption of good habits to avoid this common disease.
Outdoor sports practitioners are at higher risk of skin, ocular lesions, and developing skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This risk is intensified in environments such as the Canary Islands and mountain areas, where higher latitudes and altitudes increase UV radiation levels.
Risk Factors: Why Are We More Exposed?
Several elements increase our vulnerability to UV radiation:
- Latitude: Places like the Canary Islands, close to the tropics of cancer, experience naturally high levels of UV radiation due to their geographical position.
- Altitude: UV radiation increases approximately 4% by every 300 meters of altitude.
- Sweat: Sweat on our skin can act as a magnifying glass, concentrating and increasing the effect of UV radiation.
- Prolonged Time: The longer the exposure, the greater the risk of UV radiation accumulation.
Consequences: What Can Happen If We Don’t Protect Ourselves?
Excessive exposure without sun protection can have serious repercussions:
- Burns: Painful solar burns are immediate and visible signs of UV damage.
- Skin Cancer: Including melanoma, a highly aggressive type of cancer.
- Premature Skin Aging: Sun exposure accelerates the appearance of wrinkles, spots, and sagging skin.
- Ocular Diseases: UV radiation can contribute to cataracts and other visual issues.
Measures: Shield Your Health!
Protecting yourself from the sun is simple and effective. These measures can make a real difference:
- Sunglasses: Use sunglasses that filter 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 30+ Protective Creams: Generously apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Protective Clothing: Dress in light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that cover arms and legs.
- Risk Schedules: Pay special attention between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM when UV radiation is strongest.
- Cloudy Days: Do not underestimate UV radiation; it can pass through clouds.
- Self-Examination and Consultation: Check your skin regularly for any suspicious changes and consult a healthcare professional when necessary.
To Take Into Account
The Canary Islands is Spain’s region with the highest UV radiation throughout the year. Two of the most important health problems derived from UV exposure are skin cancer and cataracts.
Skin cancer has surged by 40% in the Canary Islands over the last four years. Excessive sun exposure without protection is the main cause of premature skin aging and the primary risk factor for skin cancer.
Recent studies show that less than half of climbing and mountain racing practitioners use sun protection, and over half report suffering burns during sports activities.
For mountain racers, the snow reflects 80% of UV radiation, which represents 150% more exposure compared to the beach.
Stay informed and protected. Visit archyde.com for more tips on sun protection and health awareness.
Remember, prevention is the best cure. Keep safe and protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays today and every day!
