Sweltering summer raises risk of sunburn and cancer

The onset of summer is popularly known as the ‘doctor's season', considering the enormous number of people who fall sick this time of year. With the weather in the next two weeks in Abu Dhabi expected to range from 28 to 47 degrees Celsius, the danger of several diseases and infections calls for proper attention, particularly skin care. Although some sunlight is advisable for a body's required vitamins, temperature conditions across the UAE may cause a reverse reaction, says doctors. Some common skin problems evident among patients due to sunlight exposure include wrinkles, freckles, blemishes, age spots and rough or dry skin, according to Dr Senthil Prabahar S, specialist dermatologist and Venereologist at the NMC Specialty Hospital. "Under normal circumstances, when the body is exposed to heat, anatomical cooling systems kick in, causing sweating or perspiration. When sweat evaporates, it cools the body, and reduces temperature. On prolonged or excessive exposure to heat, these cooling systems shut down, or cannot function properly." As the temperature rises in July and August, in the absence of a cooling mechanism, the temperature of the body rises proportionately, leading to sunstroke, which is the most common heat problem, said Dr Prabahar. The common symptoms of sunburn are red skin and painful blisters. Symptoms of heatstroke are nausea, fainting, chills and fatigue. Excessive and prolonged exposure to UV light may also cause skin cancer — a disease in which malignant cancer cells are found in the outer layers of the skin. Over 90 per cent of these cancers will appear on sun-exposed skin, usually on the face, neck, ears, forearms, and hands. Heat stroke according to Dr Prabahar, is generally common after mid-May. "The keep oneself well-covered, using caps or hats, an umbrella, or cotton jackets. People working in air-conditioned offices must not step out in the heat suddenly. It's safer to stand in the shade for a few minutes before exposing the body to high temperatures so that our skin cooling systems get accustomed to the environment." The American Academy of Dermatology and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends various steps to help reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Do     * Minimise your exposure to the sun between 10am and 3pm     * Apply sunscreen.     * Wear clothing that covers your body and shades your face.     * Avoid exposure to UV radiation.     * Drinking plenty of water, around eight glasses per day will cleanse the system     * Sleep for at least eight hours. Don't     * Don't take too many showers     * Don't skip workouts.     * Don't use harsh chemical based soap.     * Don't smoke and drink alcohol excessively.     * Cut down on carbonated soft drinks with preservatives From / Gulf News