The summer sun is in full force. Though moderate exposure with the proper protection can provide physical and mental health benefits, unprotected sunshine can have short-term consequences and present long-term risks. And men over 50 have some particular vulnerabilities.
So, while the impulse for men and women of all ages may be to run to the Jersey Shore or other destinations to soak up as much sun as they can, navigating the nuances of exposure is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and the key to preventing the development of more serious health conditions.
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On the positive side, experts credit appropriate exposure to the sun with improving sleep, reducing stress and, through Vitamin D, strengthening bones, keeping weight off and strengthening the immune system. The sun also can be employed to treat skin conditions. The World Health Organization recommendeds ultra violet radiation exposure to treat conditions like psoriasis, acne, jaundice and eczema.
What sun worshipers, outdoor workers and those simply looking for a tan need to consider is that the science also warns that unprotected exposure to ultraviolet rays can damage the skin, eyes and immune system, lead to premature skin aging known as photoaging, and cause cancer.
Other considerations complicate how you should manage your time in the sun. A person's genomic composition can offer protections to the skin or, alternatively, promote disease, according to Harvard Health. Skin type also comes into play – those with pale skin who sunburn easily are more likely to get skin cancer tied to sun exposure. The amount of sun exposure – and its timing – are crucial, too. Research suggests that suddenly getting a high amount of sun exposure is more dangerous than a steady exposure over time.
Skin cancer is common but preventable
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., exceeding breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. One in five Americans is estimated to develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, "melanoma is the most invasive skin cancer with the highest risk of death," but it is considered "highly curable" when caught early. Accordingly, medical experts stress prevention and early treatment, especially for people with fair skin, blue eyes, and blonde or red hair. Statistical models from the National Cancer Institute show that new melanoma cases rose, on average, 1.1% each year from 2012 to 2021 although death rates fell annually by an average of 3.5% from 2013 to 2022.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association reports that men 50 and older have a higher rate of invasive melanoma compared to women in the same age group. Scientists attribute this to differences in recreation and work-related UV exposure. The Skin Cancer Association says white men over 55 are the largest demographic group diagnosed with melanoma and that men with melanoma have a lower survival rate than women.
Beginning in the early 2000s, the rates of invasive melanoma have stabilized in men 50 and over, but increased by about 3% annually in women.
How to reduce risk of skin cancer and early skin aging
There are several ways to reduce risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. And while many sun worshipers strive for that deep dark tan, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration reminds us that tanning is a sign your skin is reacting to potentially damaging UV radiation with pigmentation that provides it with some, but more commonly inadequate protection against sunburn. The FDA echoes the guidance of other medical experts that people of all skin colors are potentially at risk for sunburn, particularly those who have been treated for cancer or have a family history of cancer.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers a great rundown of practical tips for skin protection so you can work and play outdoors without increasing your risk of skin cancer. Their advice includes applying sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and hats, seeking out shade when possible, using clothes to cover up, and planning activities for the morning, late afternoon, and evening.
On sunscreen, the CDC recommends that people apply a thick layer broad spectrum sunscreen that filters out both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 15 or higher on all exposed skin. The CDC stresses that a combination of sunscreen and other options works best. And while outside activities peak in the summer, UV ray protection should be a year-round practice, because UV ray exposure can happen on cloudy and cool days, and the rays can reflect off surfaces like water, cement, sand and snow.
And for those motivated by appearance, dermatologists say that using sunscreen on your face every day is the best way to prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
Behavior makes the difference
Though skin cancer is on the rise, and men 50 or older have a higher rate of invasive melanoma compared to women in the same age group, the National Cancer Institute tells us that it is among the most preventable cancers. The key, as it is with most practices that promote our health, is adopting and maintaining the behaviors that can keep us healthy – and not ignoring the obvious warning signs.
Yes, purchasing and applying sunscreen can be a chore. Donning a hat or that long sleeve T-shirt may not be the fashion statement you want to make. And carrying that umbrella down to the beach for shade may be cumbersome, but these simple steps can go a long way to reducing your risk of skin cancer and help you maintain a healthy looking complexion.
No, you do not have to cut back on your outdoor fun or reduce time with the family, just be smart about your sun management and stay true to your own health. And if you stay healthy, you’ll have more time with the ones you love, and that’s a bit of sunshine that is good for everyone.
Louis Bezich, senior vice president and chief administrative officer at Cooper University Health Care, is author of "Crack The Code: 10 Proven Secrets that Motivate Healthy Behavior and Inspire Fulfillment in Men Over 50." Read more from Louis on his website.