When was the last time you had a sunburn? If you are like almost a third of American adults, you probably survived at least one last year but do you know what you have in the cup may deteriorate? [Also read: Drinking alcohol good for your cholesterol levels? Study reveals unexpected health benefit you won’t believe]
Detection of a new study from the Florida Atlantic University to shed light on strange patterns in how Americans think about the risk of skin cancer and how alcohol, wealth and lifestyle choices play a role.
Your cocktail can nour your sunburn
A study published in the American magazine Lifestyle Medicine showed that at the time, more than one fifth tanned individuals used alcohol. That’s right – your Margarita beach can increase the risk.
Alcohol can make you less experienced about how long you have been in the sun, reduce your ability to re -apply sunscreen and even affect your body’s ability to restore UV damage.
Epidemic of skin cancer that no one is talking about
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in America, costing the healthcare system nearly $ 9 billion annually. While most people are worried about melanoma – the most deadly type – other forms such as the basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are even widespread.
- Basal cell carcinoma: often acts in the form of shiny blows or pinkish spots.
- Area cell carcinoma: manifests as red, scaly stains or open ulcers.
- Melanoma: usually looks like an unusual moth or changes in the existing one.
However, despite the prevalence, the study found that most Americans are not so concerned. Only about 10 percent said they were extremely concerned about skin cancer, while most were only a few or slightly concerned.
Sunburn: Silent risk of cancer
Dermatologists warn that only five shiny sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 can increase the risk of melanoma by 80 percent. This is shocking statistics to the fact that many people rejected as a slight summer trouble.
Who burns the most? Amazing trends
The research team surveyed over 6,000 adults and found unexpected samples:
- Wealthy people get more sunburn. Persons who earn $ 200,000+ per year are four times more likely to report sunburns than those who have less income.
- Higher education is not equal to the best protection against the sun. College graduates and higher degree have reported more sunburn than high school diploma.
- Young adults (18-39) burn more often than adults.
- Men get more sunburn than women.
- White Americans report more sunburn than black or Hispanic Americans.
Why did the richer, educated people burn more often? This probably comes down to lifestyles – cutting vacations, boats, skiing and beach activities are more affordable for those who have higher income and flexible work schedule.
Drink and burns the connection
21.5 percent used alcohol at the time. Drinking in the sun affects your opinion, causing you to forget the re -content of sunscreen or evaluate how long you have been outside.
Other common activities during sunburn episodes are included in:
- Working outdoors (11.3 percent)
- Swimming (10.1 percent)
- Exercise (7.3 percent)
Smart sun strategies: How to protect yourself
How to arm this new study, how can you remain safe in the sun?
- The sunscreen is mandatory. Use SPF 30 or higher, apply it 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and re-use every two hours.
- Remember the peak ultraviolet hours. The rays of the sun are the strongest between 10am to 4pm.
- Cover. Carry long sleeves, pants, wide hats and sunglasses that block ultraviolet processes.
- Look for shadows. A natural or artificial shade can significantly reduce UV -exposition.
- Pass the tanned beds. The closed tan dramatically increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Check your skin. Follow the ABCDE rule: asymmetry, border inequality, color changes, diameter and evolution over time.
- Be very careful around the reflexive surfaces. Water, sand and snow enhance the sun.
- Stay moisturizing. Healthy skin starts from the inside!
Why it matters
The next time you rest on the beach with a cocktail in your hand, remember that the effects of alcohol and the sun are a risky combination. The use of sunscreen and the search for a shade can save your skin – literally.
Health companies may need to review their approach. Instead of focusing only on the general safety of the sun, they can be more effective, focusing on higher income and consumers, which, surprisingly, feel more sunburn.
According to the author of the study of Madison Etcel from the Florid Atlantic University, “understanding these social factors is crucial for the fight against extensive damage to skin cancer.”
So, protect the skin, limit the drinks and rethink the sun. Your future will thank you.
Note for readers: This article is intended only for information purposes rather than to replace professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a doctor with any medical issues.
