In his statement, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Metin said: “The prevention of skin cancer largely depends on protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Skin cancer is one of the most common and increasingly prevalent health problems worldwide. The most frequent types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, while melanoma, which has a more aggressive course, can lead to serious outcomes if not detected early. Scientific evidence shows that a large proportion of skin cancer cases, especially in fair-skinned individuals, are linked to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and can largely be prevented with proper protective measures. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of skin cancer. Fair skin, blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair, having many or atypical moles, and a family history of skin cancer are important risk factors. In addition, prolonged unprotected sun exposure and the use of tanning beds significantly increase the risk. Severe sunburns during childhood and adolescence substantially raise the risk of melanoma later in life. Since a significant portion of lifetime sun exposure occurs at an early age, protection during childhood is crucial.”

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Metin added: “It is in our hands to prevent skin cancer by protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of the sun.”

Emphasizing a multi-layered approach to protection, he continued: “Direct sun exposure should be avoided between 10:00 and 16:00 when UV radiation is strongest, and shade should be preferred whenever possible. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and tightly woven or UV-protective clothing should be used. Physical protection is highly effective in shielding the skin from direct sunlight. Sunscreens with at least SPF 30–50+, providing protection against both UVA and UVB rays, should be applied before going outside and reapplied regularly after sweating or swimming. Tanning for cosmetic purposes and the use of tanning beds are not recommended. Tanning is actually a skin response to sun damage. Early diagnosis significantly increases treatment success in skin cancer. Therefore, monthly self-examinations of the entire body are recommended. The ABCDE rule should be used for mole assessment: Asymmetry (uneven halves), Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6 mm, and Evolution (changes such as growth, shape change, bleeding, or itching). If any of these signs are present, or if a lesion is non-healing, crusting, or bleeding, a dermatologist should be consulted without delay. Sun protection habits should become part of daily life, and especially in childhood, these habits must be established early.”