Newswise — SCHAUMBURG, Ill. (June 11, 2014) —
Statement from Brett M. Coldiron, MD, FAADPresident, American Academy of Dermatology
Recent stories in the media are showcasing the fact that schools and summer camps in certain regions are not allowing over-the-counter drugs such as sunscreen in schools and summer camps without a doctor’s note because of safety concerns and state regulations.
The American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) encourages all schools and summer camp programs to allow students to bring and possess sunscreen without restriction and without requiring physician authorization. The American Medical Association recently adopted a resolution to exempt sunscreen from over-the-counter medication possession bans in schools. The Academy supports this resolution.
Sunscreens are a safe and effective way to protect against the damaging effects from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Scientific evidence supports the benefits of sunscreen to minimize short- and long-term damage to the skin from UV radiation. In fact, research has found that daily sunscreen use can cut the incidence of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in half.
Current estimates are that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is now the most common form of cancer for young adults 25-29 years old, and the second most common form of cancer for adolescents and young adults 15-29 years old. Everyone, regardless of age, can develop skin cancer and unprotected sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. To reduce your risk of skin cancer, the Academy recommends that everyone protect themselves from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and generously applying a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen – that protects against both types of ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) – with an SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin.
To find out more about sun safety and sunscreen application recommendations from the American Academy of Dermatology, go to http://www.aad.org/media-resources/stats-and-facts/prevention-and-care/sunscreens.
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