Oklahoma doctors, cancer survivor warn of sun danger
Key points
- If Janice Gillespie had to do it over again, she would have listened to her mother.
- Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds causes skin cancer and wrinkling.
- - When sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- - Long-sleeved shirt and pants. - A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
If Janice Gillespie had to do it over again, she would have listened to her mother.
Gillespie, 67, spoke on Friday at OU Medical Center in hopes of encouraging others to avoid sun damage and skin cancer.
The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as “Don't Fry Day” in hopes of highlighting the importance of sun safety.
Gillespie said she began lying outside to tan around the age of 14, despite her mother's best attempts to stop her.
"My mother used to say, 'You don't need to be out there,' but I didn't listen, and I didn't pay attention," she said.
Gillespie said her love for the sun didn't stop outside; she used to visit the tanning beds at least once a day.
Her love for tanned skin continued up until her late 50s when she began to get irritated by the bumps and spots that had started forming on her arms, chest and especially on her legs.
Gillespie was referred to Dr. Pamela Allen, a dermatologist with OU Physicians, to take a look at her skin.
Skin Cancer Prevention Tips
Do Not Burn or Tan
- Avoid intentional tanning.
- Avoid tanning beds.
Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds causes skin cancer and wrinkling.
Seek Shade
- When sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Wear Protective Clothing
- Long-sleeved shirt and pants.
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Generously Apply Sunscreen
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or higher for protection from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation.
- Apply 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours.
Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow, and Sand
- These surfaces reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
Get Vitamin D Safely
- Through a healthy diet.
- Take vitamin supplements.
Early detection of melanoma can save your life. Carefully examine all of your skin once a month. A new or changing spot should be evaluated.
"They looked at my leg and said, 'That's a melanoma,'" Gillespie said. "I said, 'Oh, goodness.' I was scared."
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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