Cancer in the older population is a common health concern worldwide. Skin cancer is a steadily increasing percentage among the various types of cancer. Recent studies have shown a steady annual increase in skin cancer incidences in older people aged 45 years and over. This study further revealed that the incidence of skin cancer was higher in men 65 years and over and those with a previous history of skin cancer. Conversely, it revealed a dropping rate for younger adults and adolescents.
Frequent exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from natural sunlight and tanning beds is a significant risk factor. About 86% of skin cancer cases are due to excessive exposure to UV radiation from the sun. Other principal risk factors are family history of skin cancer, fair skin colour, and, most importantly, age.
Age plays an essential role in the genesis of skin cancers as it causes alteration in the immune system. Age has a negative effect on the number and function of endogenous cells, which are responsible for cutaneous immune function. A reduction of the cutaneous melanocyte density results in more penetration of UV rays into the dermis of older people.
Why are older people at a higher risk?
Long before people became aware of the risk factors of skin cancer, they had poor sun-protective behaviour. The lack of proper research and knowledge of how to protect themselves from the sun made people comfortable spending several hours out in the sun’s blistering heat at the beach without any skin protection.
Unfortunately, skin cancers begin to rear their ugly heads decades after the damage has already been done at a young age. This is mainly why the older population is more susceptible to skin cancer after years spent sun baking in their youth.
The good news
All hope is not lost for the older population yet. Whether you used to spend your youthful days playing outside until the sun sets, or you look back at a life spent working outdoors with no sun protection, you can still improve your skin’s health the right way.
Making sun protection an everyday habit will help you prevent sunburns and reduce your chances of getting skin cancer again if you’re predisposed. The following steps can help you reduce sun exposure:
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
- Avoid exposure to artificial ultraviolet light from sun lamps and tanning beds.
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to shade the face, neck, and ears from the sun.
- Wear a long-sleeved shirt or sun-protective clothing when going outdoors. Clothes made from UV protection fabric will offer better protection.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly. One that protects against UVA and UVB radiation and is SPF 30 or more is recommended.
- Examine your skin regularly. You can perform a self-check or book an appointment with a certified skin cancer specialist.
Conclusion
We understand that adequate research and subsequent sun protection knowledge were unavailable until two decades ago. So if you’re worried about the youth days you spent baking away in the sun, it’s not too late for you to have a healthy skin and sun relationship.
Ensuring sun protective measures is crucial to reducing the risk of skin cancer in older adults. And with early detection, the chances of successful treatment and complete recovery are significantly increased.
Young or old, if you haven’t had a skin check in the past 12 months, arrange an appointment with a trusted skin care clinic, such as Skin Clinic Robina.
