Sun Sense

For most people, summer means fun in the sun. If you’ve been undergoing cancer treatment, you may be entertaining vivid daydreams of summer fun. Lounging around in the sun might sound like a relaxing and appealing activity.

You might need to rethink your idea of summer fun, though, because some cancer treatments can actually increase the harmful effects of the sun.

Sunlight contains two types of invisible ultraviolet rays that penetrate the skin: UVA rays penetrate more deeply and sometimes cause a delayed tanning response; UVB rays cause a more immediate burning. Both types of rays can be harmful for anyone, and everyone should be cautious with sun exposure.

Cancer patients must be even more cautious than most people. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy may increase risk from sunlight.

Some chemotherapy drugs cause an increased sensitivity to the sun, or photosensitivity. Patients with photosensitivity burn more easily when they are exposed to the sun, even for short periods of time. Chemotherapy-related photosensitivity is temporary and will subside when treatment ends.

Radiation therapy, on the other hand, can cause permanent changes to the skin that increase the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Cancer patients who have undergone radiation therapy must always be vigilant about sun exposure to the areas of skin that received radiation, even if their radiation therapy occurred years ago.

As summer approaches, it's important to evaluate your cancer treatment and determine whether you should be concerned about chemotherapy-related photosensitivity or the long-term effects of radiation. Below are some suggestions for preventing sun damage and ensuring a safe summer:

Get informed. Read package inserts and talk with your doctor and your pharmacist about all of your medications and the potential for photosensitivity.
Avoid direct sun exposure.
Avoid the peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
Limit direct sun exposure to less than 1 hour total per day.
Avoid tanning booths.
Most important, be aware of your sun exposure. You may not think you’re getting much sun, but your neck, arms, and ears receive a lot of exposure. You may experience just as much sun exposure while gardening, mowing the lawn, or walking as you would if you were sunbathing on a beach. And remember: UV rays are present even on overcast days and in the winter.