Manténgase seguro bajo el sol: Concienciación sobre los rayos UV y prevención del cáncer de piel

With summer in full swing, spending time outdoors is part of the fun—but it’s also when your skin is most at risk. Whether you’re working outside, enjoying time at the beach, or just walking the dog, taking a few simple steps can help prevent long-term damage.

Skin cancer remains the most common cancer globally, and new cases have surged by approximately 42% over the past decade according to the Skin Cancer Foundation and American Cancer Society. In 2025 alone, the United States is expected to see around 104,960 new invasive melanoma diagnoses, resulting in more than 8,400 deaths, as reported by the Melanoma Research Alliance. On a global scale, over 80% of melanoma cases are attributed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, according to data from the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) y Skcin.

A growing concern is the sharp increase in melanoma among women under 50, a trend supported by recent studies covered by Axios and the Skin Cancer Foundation. While awareness is improving, prevention efforts still trail behind. Additionally, research published in The Guardian has highlighted gender-based differences in melanoma location—about 40% of melanomas in men appear on the torso, whereas 35% of melanomas in women are found on the legs. These trends point to the role of behavior, sun exposure, and clothing choices in melanoma risk.

How Your Skin Color and Heritage Affect Sun Protection

July is UV/Sun Protection Month, and while everyone needs to protect their skin from harmful UV rays, not all skin responds to the sun the same way. Your skin tone and heritage can play a role in how vulnerable you are to sun damage and skin cancer. Here’s what you should know in 2025:

Skin Tone and Sun Protection:

Piel más clara: People with lighter skin have less melanin, the pigment that offers some protection against UV rays. This makes them more prone to sunburn, premature aging, and a higher risk of developing skin cancer. If you have fair skin, it’s critical to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, and seek shade—especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Piel más oscura: People with darker skin have more melanin, which does provide some natural protection, but not enough to prevent sun damage. While the risk of sunburn may be lower, skin cancer can still occur and often goes undetected until more advanced stages. It’s important to use sunscreen daily, focus on even application (especially around the nose, lips, and ears), and monitor for subtle skin changes.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, melanoma survival rates in people with darker skin are lower, largely because it’s often diagnosed later.

Heritage and Skin Health:

Genetic Background: Your ancestry can influence your skin’s natural response to sun exposure. People whose families come from regions near the equator—such as Africa, Southeast Asia, or Latin America—may have skin that’s more adapted to sunlight. However, this does not eliminate the need for daily protection. Long-term sun exposure can still lead to wrinkles, dark spots, and increased cancer risk.

Common Concerns by Heritage:

• Individuals of European descent may be more prone to sunburn, freckles, and early signs of sun damage.
• Those with African, Hispanic, or Asian heritage may be more likely to experience hyperpigmentation, keloidso melanoma in less obvious areas, such as under the nails or on the soles of the feet.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice anything different or concerning about your skin, don’t wait. Make an appointment because early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes. Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center offer full skin assessments, medical consultations and referrals to specialists to help identify issues early and provide personalized care.

If you or your family member need to see a medical provider please call us at 262-656-0044 to schedule an appointment.