Can a mild case of sunburn lead to cancer?

Ask the Doctor
Leslee B. Cochrane, MD.
Medical Director

Ramona Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice

Question: “My grandson was visiting with us and got a mild case of sunburn while playing at the swimming pool. One of my friends warned that this could lead to skin cancer later in life, is that really true?”

Answer: Swimming is great exercise and a lot of fun but your friend is right about the sun burn. Although 10-15 minutes of sun exposure at least 3 times per week is needed to maintain healthy levels of vitamin D; excessive sun exposure is bad for your skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.

Excessive sun exposure will increase the risk of all three of the major types of skin cancer: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Studies have shown that having one blistering sun burn before age 18 or five or more sun burns at any age will double a person’s risk of developing malignant melanoma during their lifetime.

Here are some tips from the Skin Cancer Foundation www.skincancer.org to help decrease your risk:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 am- 4 pm.
• Do not burn.
• Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.
• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.
• Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours.
• Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
• Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
• See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.
  

If your grandson complains about staying out of the sun then lure him into the shade for some snacks. Once he has eaten them, inform him that he can’t go swimming for 30 minutes because gramps says he’ll get the cramps.

If you need help with any general health related issues please contact our HELP line at 1-888-983-5337; or visit us on the web at www.help4elders.info. If you would like to submit a question please contact Jennifer Trebler at jtrebler@ramonavna.org.