Every year, Serbia discovers thousands of new melanoma patients, and the main culprit is UV radiation – both natural sunlight and artificial from tanning beds. Dr. Mirjana Pavlović from the City Institute of Skin and Venereal Diseases warns that it is crucial to use sunscreens with an SPF of 50, whether you are at the sea or in the mountains. Yes, you read that right – 50! And not just once, but reapply every two hours, using the amount equivalent to two fingers for your face and neck, and the same for other body parts not covered by clothing.
Melanoma is curable in its early stages, but once it metastasizes to lymph nodes, brain, or other internal organs, it becomes deadly. The biggest risk factor is UV radiation, and thanks to legal regulations, the use of tanning beds by minors is banned in Serbia. However, many still ignore the seriousness of the problem.
Prevention is key – regular dermatoscopic examinations of moles, especially for people with a family history of malignant melanoma or other cancers, or those exposed to radiation therapy. Injuries to moles do not cause melanoma but can help doctors detect changes earlier.
If you have personal or family risk factors, or have had organ transplants or severe burns before age 18, the risk of aggressive melanoma doubles. So, don’t play with sun exposure and protection – your health is at stake!
If you thought applying sunscreen was just a summer fad, think again. This is serious business that can save your life. Now, take a look at your sunscreen – does it really have SPF 50? If not, it’s time to upgrade. And don’t forget, reapply every two hours, or you might find yourself in trouble.
And hey, if you have any crazy sun or sunscreen stories, or maybe forgot to apply and ended up looking like a roasted chicken, share them in the comments – let’s laugh and learn from each other!
