Skin Cancer
Click here to watch the CEHS skin cancer video
The COEC has compiled a report that highlights the latest research on skin cancer and its environmental and genetic risk factors. The COEC is also collaborating with various organizations, including the UNC Department of Dermatology and ABC11, to develop educational materials and increase public awareness about the dangers of skin cancer and how to reduce risks.
Researchers at the UNC-Chapel Hill Center for Environmental Health and Susceptibility (CEHS) are conducting studies to better understand the genetic and environmental basis of skin cancer. Click here to read about the skin cancer research of Dr. Kaufmann and Dr. Millikan.
Stay Safe in the Sun
Children are especially susceptible to the damaging effects of the UV radiation. Research has shown that exposure to UV, especially in childhood, increases the likelihood of developing the most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma. However, it is also important for adults to be safe in the sun.
Protect yourself from UV radiation in the following ways:
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
- Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and reapply often. The higher the SPF, the better.
- When outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants, a hat to shade the ears, face, and eyes, and sunglasses to protect the skin around the eyes.
- Pay attention to the EPA’s UV index, which predicts the next day’s ultraviolet radiation levels on a 1–11+ scale, to help you plan sun-safe activities. To find out the UV Index for your area, visit the EPA SunWise UV Index website at www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html.
- Avoid tanning beds, which can lead to skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.
Click here to learn more about skin cancer in North Carolina in the latest CEHS Sentinel newsletter.
