SUN SAFETY & SKIN HEALTH IN THE BAY AREA

Living in the Bay Area certainly has its perks, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant lifestyle. However, this picturesque setting comes with a price – intense sun exposure. The sun’s rays are not only more damaging today but are also a leading cause of skin cancer, a deadly condition that affects millions of Americans. We sat down with renowned Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Kimberly Donnellan MD, from USA Health, to discuss the significance of sun protection, skin cancer types, prevention, and the surprising truths about skin health.

By Caroline Edmondson Headshots Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Perhaps even more chilling, more than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour, and having had 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma, the most aggressive skin cancer. Living in the Bay Area and spending the majority of our summers baking in the intense sun, these statistics are very alarming. 

According to Dr. Donnellan, there are four primary types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and the most aggressive one, melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are often caused by sun damage and account for the majority of skin cancer cases. While basal cell carcinoma is slow-growing, squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other parts of the body. Merkel cell carcinoma is rare but aggressive, with its incidence growing in the U.S. Lastly, melanoma, though accounting for only 1% of skin cancers, can rapidly spread if not detected and treated early.

As climate change and global warming progress, the sun’s rays become more potent and damaging. Ozone depletion contributes to this increase in UV radiation, leading to an estimated 300,000 non-melanoma and 4,500 melanoma skin cancer cases for every 10% decrease in ozone levels. “Rates have risen rapidly over the past thirty years as we saw a doubling between 1982 to 2011.   A slight decline was seen in the younger age groups possibly due to an awareness of the dangers of sun exposure.”

Dr. Donnellan emphasizes the importance of yearly professional skin checks. These screenings involve tracking abnormalities over time and biopsies of suspicious skin lesions. If moles change in color, size, itch, or bleed, immediate analysis is advised. Early detection is crucial for avoiding disfiguring surgeries. Despite awareness campaigns, Dr. Donnellan finds it astonishing that tanning beds are still in use. “Those who use tanning beds before the age of 35 increase their risk of melanoma by 75% with over 400,000 cases of skin cancer directly linked to indoor tanning,” she warns. More people develop skin cancer from tanning beds than people develop lung cancer from smoking!

Dr. Donnellan emphasizes that most skin cancers result from sun exposure decades earlier. Taking steps to protect your skin now can influence your future appearance and skin cancer risk. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding direct sun exposure are crucial. And she warns us to be vigilant when it comes to checking your skin for possible abnormalities. “Some of the more aggressive cancers can grow to a considerable size in a matter of weeks.  For this reason, if you notice an unusual spot, make an appointment and have a biopsy done if indicated,” she says. 

Leading by example, Dr. Donnellan advocates for comprehensive sun protection strategies. Whether on the beach or the tennis court, she emphasizes using sunscreen, wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible. “It is so important to apply and reapply sunscreen when participating in swimming or activities where you tend to sweat!” And when it comes to reversing the appearance of sun damage, Dr. Donnellan highlights the effectiveness of CO2 laser treatments. This treatment not only corrects hyperpigmentation but also stimulates collagen production, reducing wrinkles and promoting healthier skin.

In a world where sunny rays can have dire consequences, it’s imperative to prioritize skin health. Dr. Kimberly Donnellan MD’s insights shed light on the dangers of sun exposure, the importance of skin checks, and the power of protective measures. As we navigate the changing landscape of our environment, let’s remember that safeguarding our skin today is an investment in our health and future well-being.

USA Health Facial Plastic Surgery

USA Health Midtown 2505 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36607

251.341.4094 | USAHealthSystem.com