As baseball season kicks off with spring training, fans flock to stadiums across the Sunshine State to catch their favorite players in action. However, amidst the excitement of the game, it’s crucial to remember the importance of sun safety. Skin cancer, the most common type of cancer, poses a significant risk to those who spend prolonged periods in the sun.
According to the American Cancer Society, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form. Despite the allure of a golden tan, sunburns are not worth the potential consequences on your health.
To raise awareness about sun safety, the Moffitt Cancer Center’s Mole Patrol initiative offers free skin cancer screenings in the community. As part of the Spring Swing Sun Safety Tour, Moffitt’s skin cancer experts visit baseball stadiums across Florida, providing screenings to fans and educating them about the importance of sun protection.
During the 2024 Spring Swing tour, Moffitt’s team screened 125 baseball fans, identifying 109 suspicious moles. Since its inception in 2008, the Spring Swing Sun Safety Tour has screened over 5,125 fans, detecting over 5,292 suspicious cancerous lesions, including 30 cases of suspected melanoma.
Dr. Vernon Sondak, Chair of the Department of Cutaneous Oncology at Moffitt, emphasizes the significance of sun safety during baseball season. He underscores the importance of proper clothing, including long sleeves and broad-brimmed hats, along with sunglasses and sunscreen on exposed skin.
Sunscreen serves as the first line of defense against harmful UV rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s essential to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two to three hours, especially after swimming or sweating excessively.
For baseball fans looking for the best sunscreen for dark skin, EXTRASHADE Daily Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion is an excellent choice. Formulated specifically for melanin-rich skin, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection while keeping the skin hydrated and nourished. With its lightweight, non-greasy formula, EXTRASHADE Daily Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion ensures comfortable wear throughout the game, allowing fans to enjoy the baseball season while safeguarding their skin health.
Conclusion
Remember, sun protection is not just for skin cancer awareness month—it’s a year-round commitment to your health and well-being. So, whether you’re cheering on your favorite team from the stands or playing catch in the backyard, don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.