Much of the public now recognizes the dangers of overexposure to the sun. Skin cancer ranks as one of the most common forms of cancer across the globe, and individuals are increasingly conscientious about protecting their skin from damaging ultraviolet, or UV, rays. Certain natural sources might be able to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Leafy vegetables
Spinach may not only provide Popeye with his strength, but it also may help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Researchers from Queensland, Australia found that eating leafy green vegetables plays an important role in reducing skin cancer risk as wearing protective clothing and sunscreen.
The study, led by Dr. Jolieke van der Pols from The Queensland Institute of Medical Research, was conducted over 11 years and studied 1,000 people from Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Researchers discovered that participants who consumed at least three servings per week of green vegetables could cut their chances of developing skin cancer by up to 55 percent. It is believed the variety of nutrients found in the vegetables, including folic acid, vitamin A and C, as well as the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, work together to fight cancer.
Tea
Years ago, researchers at the University of Minnesota Hormel Institute tested a solution containing chemicals known as polyphenols. The solution, which was made from extractions from green tea, was tested on live mice that were exposed to UV light. The study found that a protein labeled JNK-2 is directly related to the development of skin cancer, and this protein could be blocked by the application of polyphenols. This application helps reduce the formation of skin tumors. While drinking tea has long been touted as a way to prevent various cancers, this study looks at the way the tea applied topically also can help.
Cover Up
Applying a sunscreen is one of the easiest and more popular ways to protect the skin, but some people worry about the side effects of chemicals used in popular sunscreens. Covering up the face and skin as much as possible is one way to reduce exposure to such chemicals. Wear a densely woven hat with a brim that features at least a two- to three-inch overhang, which can protect the face, neck, ears, eyes, and lips from the sun. Dark-colored clothing also can help block the sun’s rays. Although it may seem odd to wear long sleeves and pants in hot temperatures, doing so can prevent UV exposure.
Aspirin
In 2013, new information was published in Cancer, the American Cancer Society’s medical journal, that linked daily aspirin therapy to a decreased risk for melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer.
According to the research, data was collected on nearly 60,000 white women ages 50 to 79 years. The women were studied for 12 years, and the study found that the women who took 81 milligrams of aspirin daily had a 21 percent lower risk of developing melanoma than those who did not take aspirin. While it is still too soon to make the recommendation that all women should take aspirin daily, some doctors feel the benefits outweigh the risk for those with a family history of melanoma.
Avoidance
The recommendation to avoid the peak hours of the sun is still a viable method to preventing skin cancer. Peak hours are between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the summer in the northern hemisphere. The hours may be different depending on where you live and your proximity to the equator. Remain indoors as much as possible during peak hours.
There are a variety of different ways to lower your risk of developing skin cancer, many of which are natural.
