Workers who spend all day outside are exposed to high levels of ultraviolet radiation, even when it is cloudy. Exposure from the ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage skin and potentially cause skin cancer, which is the most common type of cancer. In a 2018 poll conducted by the Center for Construction Research and Training, it was estimated that in this year roughly 90,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer. Out of that 90,000 people, 9,000 will die because of melanoma. Melanoma is known to be the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Examining your body monthly for warning signs is important to detecting skin cancer. Detecting skin cancer early is easier to treat as well as easier to being cured. Warning signs to keep an eye open for may include:
Protecting your skin is an easy task to do. Three easy tips can be taken to prevent exposure to ultraviolet radiation. These tips include:
1. Wear Sunscreen
2. Wear Protective Clothing
3. Stay in the Shade
Awareness needs to be spread on skin cancer. Anyone can develop skin cancer, no matter what tone of skin you have. Women tend to develop melanoma more than men prior to the age of 50. After the age of 65, the chances for men to develop melanoma increases. Melanoma is the most common type of cancer for people who are younger than 30. The chances to develop the cancer double for those who have suffered from five or more sunburns.
For more Occupational Health and Safety tips, visit our Occupational Health division of Amerisafe Group.
Author: Michael Thompson, Safety Intern