.
Stay ahead of current fashion and more by subscribing to our complimentary weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter.
Get ahead of the curve in the fashion world and beyond by subscribing to our complimentary weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter.
A recent study revealed that many individuals fail to properly protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays by not using enough sunscreen or wearing appropriate clothing. The study also cautioned that relying solely on sunscreen may create a misleading sense of safety.
Newly published in the journal Cancers, the study provides further insight into the peculiar “sunscreen paradox” where despite increased sunscreen usage, melanoma and skin cancer rates continue to increase worldwide.
According to Ivan Litvinov, a co-author at McGill University in Canada, the issue is that individuals utilize sunscreen as a justification to tan. People believe that by using a product advertised to prevent a certain condition, they are shielded from skin cancer.
During the study, researchers discovered that Canadians residing in provinces with high rates of melanoma, a severe type of skin cancer, were more inclined to use sun protection, had a better understanding of the health hazards of sun exposure, and were more likely to adhere to the UV index.
In total, researchers evaluated information from 22 separate discussion groups consisting of 95 individuals living in Atlantic Canada.
The study discovered that although individuals in these regions reported being more aware and having a greater intention to protect themselves from the sun, they actually received higher levels of sun exposure due to hotter weather and a tendency to participate in outdoor activities.
Another study conducted on individuals in the United Kingdom yielded conflicting findings, showing a surprising association between sunscreen usage and more than doubling the risk of developing skin cancer.
Dr. Litvinov explained that there is a sunscreen paradox where people who are exposed to more sun tend to use more sunscreen, but not enough to provide adequate protection. This can give them a false sense of security. These findings suggest that this paradox exists.
Researchers are urging for the implementation of new strategies to fill in the gaps of knowledge regarding sun protection and prevention of skin cancer, known as the sunscreen paradox.
According to Dr. Litvinov, sunscreen is necessary but not the most effective method for shielding your skin from the sun. Instead, sun protective clothing, rash guards, and limiting time in the sun are better options. It is possible to enjoy outdoor activities without risking a sunburn or tan.
Source: independent.co.uk
