Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common in the country. The Orange December campaign strengthens prevention
From 2023 to 2025, Brazil will have more than 2 million new skin cancer diagnoses, with at least 704,000 cases registered each year, estimates the National Cancer Institute (INCA). According to the projection, the most frequent cancer in the country continues to be non-melanoma skin, with 31.3%, surpassing breast (10.5%) and prostate (10.2%).
In this context, the December Orange campaign, organized by the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), acquires even more importance. This year, under the theme “Don’t wait to feel it on your skin”, dermatologists from all over the country are strengthening treatment as a form of prevention and underlining the importance of early diagnosis of the disease.
The main risk factor for skin cancer
During the campaign, warnings about the importance of sun protection are very frequent, which is no coincidence. According to dermatologist Dário Rosa, the incidence of sunlight has a very close relationship with non-melanoma skin cancer. “People who are exposed to the sun for long periods, especially those with light skin, hair and eyes, are at the greatest risk of developing this type of cancer,” says the doctor.
Children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of the sun, the dermatologist points out. “During the first 10 years, and even in youth, up to the age of 20, exposure to sunlight is cumulative. This factor increases the risk of skin cancer in adulthood and also in old age,” he informs.
Importance of sunscreen
The key attitude to reversing the skin cancer estimates presented by Inca is “prevention”, which begins with applying appropriate filters for each skin type. “The right product, with a sun protection factor (SPF) appropriate to the times and conditions of sun exposure, minimizes the chances of a skin cancer diagnosis,” says Anelise Dutra, dermatologist, member of the SBD.
However, applying photoprotectants against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays is far from a daily habit in Brazil, a country with one of the highest levels of solar radiation in the world. “In the office, 90 percent of patients report not using or misusing sunscreen,” Anelise points out. “In this group men are the majority,” adds Dário Rosa.
Dermatologists agree that, in addition to photoprotectors, it is necessary to limit the incidence of sunlight on the skin – which can be done with the use of clothes, hats and caps, sunglasses and other accessories, but that’s not all. . “Hydration and a balanced diet are also essential and deserve close attention,” adds Dário.
How to protect yourself from skin cancer every hour of the day
The experts have prepared a table with timetables and advice for those who are exposed to the sun. Watch:
From 6:00 to 8:00 and from 16:00 to 17:00: The consequences of sun exposure in these moments are reduced.
From 8:00 to 9:00 and from 15:00 to 16:00: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30.
from 9:00 to 11:00 and from 14:00 to 15:00: Apply filters with SPF 30 to 50. Wear sunscreen shirts, sunscreen glasses, hats, or caps. Reapply sunscreen every 3 to 4 hours.
From 11:00 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 14:00: Avoid going out during these hours. The filter must have an SPF greater than 50. Wear sunscreen clothing, glasses, hats, or caps. Pass the protector on the skin every 3 or 4 hours.
from 12:00 to 13:00: Avoid exposure to the sun during this period. Apply a filter with SPF greater than 50. Wearing clothes with sunscreen, glasses, hats and caps is highly recommended. At the beach or pool, reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours.
Anelise points out that, with early diagnosis and treatment, treatable cancer has up to a 90% chance of being cured. “Therefore, when you observe, for example, a spot or a non-healing wound, the appearance of moles and even bright and raised-looking lesions, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention,” she warns.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
