Hi,
This post is not just for
“Sun worshippers!”
but for the rest of us who enjoy living as well!
We all have heard about the ozone layer, ozone is a molecule living in the atmosphere, and the ozone layer protects us against the harmful effects of sunshine. It absorbs the ultraviolet portion of radiation from the sun, preventing it from reaching the mother earth surface. Ultraviolet light has been linked to many problems such as skin cancer, cataracts, and other problems.
Now we know that amongst other things, man made products are depleting the atmosphere from this shield. Therefore we receive more than our share from the UV light.
UV light is an important risk factor in getting Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) which
“is the most common cancer in humans”
according to Dr. Nicholas F.V. Hogg in an article written in Oral Health, June 2013 issue, under the title of
” Surgical Management of Basal Cell Carcinoma”.
The best treatment is prevention. Staying away from sun between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. Wearing sun screen lotion with high SPF and repeated application of it. Staying away from tanning beds and encouraging policies against depletion of ozone layer.
The most common place for getting BCC is the head and the neck and as dentists we can see them readily.
As per Dr. Hogg:
” BCC is slow growing and has a low potential to metastasize, however it is locally invasive and destructive. Early diagnosis is important as it improves the functional and esthetic outcome for the patient.”
Happy ozone day,
To be continued…
