Keeping kids safe in the sun

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), July, 1994

One blistering sunburn suffered as a child doubles the chances for skin cancer later in life. Melanoma and other skin problems related to excessive sun exposure are reasons why dermatologists emphasize the importance of teaching children and their parents the rights and wrongs of protecting their skin from an overdose of sunshine.

"The incidence of melanoma is increasing at a higher rate than any other skin cancer," cautions Elaine C. Siegfried, assistant professor of pediatrics and internal medicine, St. Louis University School of Medicine. "Both cumulative sun exposure and the tendency to sunburn play an important role in that. The younger you are when you begin taking care of your skin, the better off you'll be when you're older. It's a classic case of preventive medicine."

Approximately 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs during childhood. Fair-skinned blondes usually don't tan well and burn more easily. Moreover, infants and young children have not had progressive sun exposure and will burn more easily than their parents. Following a few simple guidelines will minimize the risks of excessive sun exposure.

* Make sure your off spring wears a sun screen when playing or swimming outdoors. The best sun screen for children is the one they will wear and that does not need to be reapplied frequently. In general, products that are waterproof and can be sprayed on are the most effective and well-tolerated.

* Keep children out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If they have to go out during this time, make sure they wear a hat.

* When you change locale, change exposure habits. The sun's rays are more concentrated at lower latitudes and higher altitudes. People get a double dose from reflective surfaces like sand, water, and snow. Extra skin care precautions should be taken on family vacations.

* Parents should set a good example. If they instruct their offspring to wear a hat or apply sun screen, the adults should follow their own advice.

* Parents should consult their physician if their child's skin has any changing skin lesions.

* The best treatment for sunburn is prevention. If it occurs, though, the discomfort may be minimized with cool compresses, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. Topical petroleum jelly may be used to protect the healing skin. Products containing benzocaine should be avoided, because they frequently can cause rashes.