Long sun exposure in Latvia causes skin doctors' concerns due to high risk of sunburns
Sunburn, a common occurrence during the summer months, is more than just a temporary inconvenience. New research shows that prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to changes in the biochemical processes in the skin, potentially increasing the risk of developing skin cancer.
According to dermatologist Balcere, people often exhibit a paradoxical behavior, seeking the sun on rainy days and then getting sunburnt on sunny days. This behavior, he emphasizes, can have negative effects on one's "life experience."
When the skin is exposed to UV rays, it can lead to DNA damage, causing mutations in skin cells. If this damage is not properly repaired, it can lead to abnormal cell growth and eventually cancer. Melanocytes, the cells responsible for pigment production, are particularly susceptible to this damage, and mutations in these cells can trigger melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer.
The risk of developing skin cancer compounds with repeated and severe exposure, especially in childhood. A blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles the chance of developing melanoma later in life. Having five or more sunburns doubles the risk of melanoma.
The damage caused by sunburn is cumulative and irreversible, making prevention and early detection critical for long-term skin health. The key to improved outcomes is catching skin cancer early. Regular skin checks are important, especially for those with a history of severe or frequent sunburns.
The types of skin cancer linked to sunburn include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, often starting as a mole that spreads quickly. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common, growing slowly, while squamous cell carcinoma can spread and is more common than melanoma.
Dermatologists recommend avoiding sunburn as a basic precaution. On rainy days, people should protect their skin from the sun with clothing or SPF sunscreen. While it is a common misconception that there is not enough sun to get burnt, even short periods of exposure can lead to the production of vitamin D in the body. Prolonged exposure, however, can potentially lead to malignant tumors such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
Balcere stresses that avoiding the sun completely is not the recommended approach; instead, the focus should be on not getting sunburnt and being thoughtful about one's daily activities. According to Karls, it is possible to get sunburnt even on cloudy or rainy days, so it is important to always protect the skin. By being mindful of one's daily life and taking simple precautions like wearing sunscreen and seeking shade, people can enjoy the sun safely and maintain their long-term skin health.
- Science has shown that therapies and treatments aiming at health-and-wellness, especially mental health, are becoming increasingly important, considering the impacts of prolonged sun exposure on skin health and the subsequent risks of developing skin cancer.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in skin care, as a balanced diet can strengthen the skin's defense mechanisms against UV rays, potentially reducing the risk of DNA damage and cell mutations that lead to skin cancer.
- In line with dermatologist Balcere's views, incorporating skin-care practices such as wearing protective clothing and applying SPF sunscreen during rainy days, when there is a misconception about insufficient sun exposure, can help avoid sunburn and maintain long-term health-and-wellness, including mental health and skin health.
