Stay sun smart this Summer: Tygerberg Hospital advises prevention, protection and early detection of skin cancer

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town treats approximately 1 000 skin cancer patients annually and is appealing to South Africans to be vigilant regarding sun protection and to seek medical advice promptly if they notice any skin changes.

Skin cancer remains a significant health concern, but early detection and treatment can lead to a high rate of cure. Regularly checking your skin for new growths such as moles, lumps or changes in existing ones is a simple but critical step.

While enjoying the sunny weather, it’s essential to remember that the sun’s rays, while vital for our well-being, can also pose serious health risks.

Skin Cancer Awareness Season still runs until 31 January and Dr Barbara van der Westhuizen, a dermatologist at Tygerberg Hospital, emphasises the need for public awareness and proactive measures.

“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer globally, and South Africa’s sunny climate places residents at higher risk. The new sun protection guidelines emphasise prevention and sun-safe habits, offering practical steps for individuals and families to minimise their risk.”

Key guidelines for skin cancer prevention

Avoid sunburn: Even a single blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double the risk of developing melanoma later in life.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen: Apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher that protects against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
Seek shade: Especially between 10:00 and 16:00 when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Wear protective clothing: Choose tightly woven, lightweight, and long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Avoid tanning beds: Artificial ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can be just as harmful as natural sunlight.
Educate children: Start early, as habits formed during childhood can last a lifetime.

The ABCDE rule can help you spot concerning skin changes:

Asymmetry: One half of a mole or spot doesn’t match the other.
Border: Edges are irregular, blurred or ragged.
Colour: Varying shades of brown, black, tan, red, white or blue.
Diameter: Larger than 6 mm, about the size of a pencil eraser.
Evolving: Changes in size, shape, colour or elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching.

If you notice any of these signs, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Special protection for children

Children’s skin is more sensitive to UVR, making sun protection critical during outdoor play:

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas, especially the face, ears and back of the neck.
Use sun-protective swimsuits and hats with neck flaps.
Encourage regular shade breaks, especially during peak UV hours.
Lead by example – parents practicing sun safety will inspire children to do the same.