[Health Tip] Increasing Outdoor Activities in Spring... Skin Cancer Risk Rises

"Sunlight is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by WHO"

As outdoor activities increase in spring, advice has been given to avoid prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays to prevent skin cancer.

On the 13th, with clear skies nationwide and daytime high temperatures rising to around 30 degrees Celsius, a citizen near Gwanghwamun in Seoul walks while shielding themselves from the sun. On this day, the ultraviolet index was forecasted to be at a 'very high' level in most regions across the country. 'Very high' indicates a very dangerous level where skin can burn within minutes of sun exposure. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

Professor Jeong Kiheon of the Department of Dermatology at Kyung Hee University Hospital advised, "With the increase in outdoor activities, it is easy to be exposed to UV rays, and the amount of UV rays reaching the surface has also increased due to ozone layer depletion caused by environmental pollution."

According to Professor Jeong, sunlight is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is identified as a direct cause of skin cancer. He emphasized, "Before going out, thorough preparation for UV protection and minimizing prolonged exposure are essential."

He explained that while UV rays have some benefits for the body, they are more harmful to the skin. UV rays can cause pigment disorders, skin cancer, photoaging, and photosensitive diseases. In particular, UVA and UVB rays are closely related to skin aging and the development of skin cancer. UVA rays, having longer wavelengths, penetrate deeply into the skin and can cause systemic immunosuppression. UVB rays directly damage DNA, which can lead to cancer development.

Professor Jeong said, "It is best to reduce outdoor activities between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., when UV rays are strongest, and to prepare items such as parasols, wide-brimmed hats, and long-sleeved clothing for UV protection before going out. Applying sunscreen properly is also important; products that block both UVA and UVB are recommended, and sunscreen should be applied sufficiently before going outdoors and reapplied frequently after sun exposure."

Skin cancer is more visible on lesions compared to other cancers, so early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes and lower risk of metastasis. Professor Jeong advised, "If new moles appear or existing moles change in shape, color, or size, or if there are ulcers or wounds that do not heal with general treatment, it is recommended to undergo dermoscopy or biopsy by specialized medical personnel."

Professor Jeong Giheon, Department of Dermatology, Kyung Hee University Hospital. [Photo by Kyung Hee University Hospital]

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.