Did you Know that Farmers are at higher Risk of Skin Cancer?

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

As farmers are spending more time now outside in the sun, it is a good time to remind producers that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

This month is all about teaching people how to prevent and spot skin cancer early. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.

Those who farm, are at a higher risk of contracting skin cancer than other groups of people, because of their prolonged exposure to the sun.

Farmers, along with other outdoor workers, spend extensive hours under the sun, which increases their risk of developing skin cancer. The ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major cause of skin cancer, and those who work outdoors are exposed to it more frequently and for longer durations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rural populations, including farmers, may face higher risks of skin cancer due to occupational sun exposure.

Why Farmers Are at Higher Risk

1. Prolonged Sun Exposure: Farmers often work long hours in open fields with little to no shade, leading to continuous exposure to harmful UV rays.
2. Lack of Protective Measures: Many farmers may not use adequate sun protection, such as sunscreen, protective clothing, or hats, due to the nature of their work or lack of awareness.
3. Delayed Medical Attention: Access to healthcare can be limited in rural areas, leading to delays in the diagnosis and treatment of suspicious skin lesions.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, about 104,960 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, will be diagnosed, with approximately 8,430 deaths expected

Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers but causes a large majority of skin cancer deaths.

The lifetime risk of developing melanoma is about 3% (1 in 33) for White people, 0.1% (1 in 1,000) for Black people, and 0.5% (1 in 200) for Hispanic people

Preventive Measures for Farmers
Despite the increased risk, there are several steps farmers can take to protect themselves from skin cancer:

• Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours or after sweating.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses can provide additional protection.
• Seek Shade: Take breaks in shaded areas.
• Regular Skin Checks: Conduct regular self-examinations of the skin to detect any new or changing spots. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.

Recognizing the Signs of Skin Cancer
Early detection of skin cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Farmers should be aware of the following signs, often referred to as the "ABCDEs" of melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
• Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
• Color: Uneven shades of brown, black, or other colors.
• Diameter: Spot is larger than a pencil eraser.
• Evolving: Spot changes in size, shape, or color.

If any of these signs are noticed, it is important to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

The month of May serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of skin cancer awareness and prevention, especially for those at higher risk like farmers. By adopting protective measures and staying vigilant about skin changes, farmers can significantly reduce their risk of skin cancer and ensure their long-term health.