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Ways to Protect Against Skin Cancer

Environmental dermatologist, Robert D. Bibb, M.D., an internationally recognized expert on the harmful impact of pollution and sun exposure on the skin, today released his recommendations for protecting ourselves and our children from summer skin damage.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer affects one in five Americans, with more than one million new cases diagnosed each year. According to Dr. Bibb, "As a practicing dermatologist, I see countless cases of skin cancer that could have been prevented, and sadly, skin cancer patients keep getting younger. A survey sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that approximately 43% of white children under age 12 had at least one sunburn during the past year."

Cancer of the skin is the most common of all cancers. Melanoma accounts for about 4% of skin cancer cases, but it causes most skin cancer deaths. The number of new cases of melanoma in the United States is on the rise. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006 there will be 62,190 new cases of melanoma in this country, and about 7,910 people will die from it.

Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays appears to be the most important environmental factor involved in the development of skin cancer. UV radiation is also a key factor in the development of lip cancer,

UV rays from artificial sources of light, such as tanning beds and sunlamps, are as dangerous as those from the sun and should also be avoided. Although both tanning and burning can increase a person's risk of skin cancer, most Americans do not consistently protect themselves from UV rays.

Boys have a higher incidence of skin cancer than girls.

"Every year in my practice I see more and more young people, some as young as eight years old, with skin cancer," said Dr. Bibb. "That is why I fully endorse the American Academy of Dermatology's vitally important campaign to educate parents and children about the dangerous realities of sun as well as environmental skin damage."

Dr. Bibb recommends:

Apply an antioxidant creme first: Before applying any sunscreen everyone should apply an antioxidant creme to help prevent skin damage. While raspberry-based cremes offer the very best benefits, vitamin C and vitamin E cremes will also work.

Always use a sunscreen: Always apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF rating of 30, that blocks the most damaging UVA waves as well as the usual UVC and UVB rays, like Dr. Karl Gruber's new Luca sunscreen. Be sure to use enough (a palmful) and reapply it every two hours, as well as immediately after swimming or sweating. Always use a sunscreen -- even on hazy or overcast days. Also, don't make the dangerous mistake of thinking that because you're using a sunscreen, you can stay out in the sun longer.

Always use a lip balm: Since the lips are more sensitive to sun and wind, and are not normally protected by sunscreen application, a lip balm with a minimum SPF rating of 30 is imperative. Currently Vanicream Lip Protectant SPF 30 offers the best protection.

Cover up: Whenever possible wear long-sleeved clothing, long pants and a hat with a brim that protects the face, ears and neck.

Seek shade: Whenever possible, especially in the middle of the day when the sun's rays are strongest, seek out shady areas to minimize sun damage.

Wear sunglasses. Always protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that absorb at least 99% of the UV rays. Wrap-around sunglasses are the best, because they help protect your eyes and the skin around your eyes.

About Robert D. Bibb, M.D.

Dr. Bibb is an internationally recognized dermatologist, researcher and cancer fighter. He is a pioneer in the field of environmental dermatology and a recognized leader in combating the damaging effects of pollution on the skin. In private dermatology practice in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina since 1984, Dr. Bibb did his internship in New Orleans where he was voted outstanding intern of the year and completed his residency in dermatology at the Medical University of South Carolina. He received his B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Clarkson University, where he was elected to the chemical engineering honorary. He received an M.S. and completed course work towards a PhD in Bio-Environmental Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Dr. Bibb is also President of Botanical Solutions, Inc., a Myrtle Beach; South Carolina based venture capital firm specializing in agribusiness, cosmeceutical, health, medical, nutraceutical and research initiatives and directives.

Source: Botanical Solutions, Inc.

Web site: http://www.botanicalsolutions.com/

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