Every day you risk your life as a first responder in order to protect the community you serve. Even while you may be ready for the physical risks of the job, skin cancer is one risk that you might not have considered. For first responders, exposure to the sun's dangerous UV rays poses a serious occupational risk, and skin cancer risk is substantially higher in this line of work.This blog post will cover the significance of protecting yourself against skin cancer while out on the line and offer helpful advice to lower your risk. By taking the necessary precautions, you can continue to serve your community while also protecting your health. 

Understanding the risk

First responders, such as firefighters and police officers, face a serious occupational risk when exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This exposure puts them at an increased risk for developing skin cancer, considered to be the most common cancer in the US. Compared to the general population, first responders have a 9% higher chance of acquiring skin cancer, with this risk increasing with the amount of time spent on the job. 

Fair complexion, light-colored hair, and a history of sunburns increase the risk even further. Skin cancer risk is also increased by exposure to other sources of UV radiation, such as welding and tanning beds. Skin cancer can have devastating consequences, such as deformity, disability, and even death.

Additionally, skin cancer can have a significant impact on a first responder’s ability to work, as it may require extensive medical treatment and recovery time. Therefore, It is crucial to prioritize skin protection as part of overall occupational health and safety in order to protect first responders from skin cancer. 

Prevention and Protection

It should be your primary concern as a first responder to shield your skin from the sun's dangerous UV radiation. Thankfully, there are a number of methods to prevent and protect yourself.

Protective gear 

Wearing protective clothes is one of the best things you can do to shield your skin from the sun. The finest protection comes from garments constructed of densely woven materials. Wearing long-sleeved clothing, pants, sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats can protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays. Further defense can be had by wearing clothing with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating.

Consistently use sunscreen

A mineral based, broad-spectrum sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 is typically recommended.  Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, including your hands, ears, and face. Facial sunscreen is recommended to be applied on a daily basis, even in the winter time, as this area is always exposed and is the most common area to develop skin cancer. Keep in mind to apply sunscreen again every two hours or right away after swimming or perspiring.

Seek Shade 

To avoid the sun's rays, seek shelter whenever you can. This can entail using a canopy or an umbrella, stopping for breaks in shady places, or even making your own shade by setting up near a building or other structure.

Detection and Early Intervention

As a first responder, you are aware of the need to maintain good health. But many people are unaware of the risks or the indicators to watch out for when it comes to skin cancer. The most prevalent type of cancer in the country is skin cancer, and effective treatment depends on early detection. The significance of routine skin examinations, the warning signs and symptoms of skin cancer, and what to do if you spot a worrisome mole or lesion are all covered in this blog post.

The Value of Often Checking Your Skin

To find skin cancer early, when it is most curable, routine skin examinations are crucial. Because of the UV radiation you are exposed to on the job as a first responder, you may have an increased chance of developing skin cancer. So, it's paramount to schedule yearly dermatologist visits for skin examinations and to conduct routine self-examinations. A dermatologist will analyze your skin during a skin check for any suspicious moles or lesions and may take a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Skin cancer symptoms and signs

Although skin cancer can manifest itself in a variety of ways, there are a few universal signs and symptoms to watch out for. They consist of:

• a mole that alters in dimension, form, or color.
• a mole that starts to hurt, itch, or become tender a mole that starts to bleed or ooze.
• a new growth or mole on the skin.
• a wound that never heals.

Even though not all moles or blemishes are malignant, it is usually recommended to have a dermatologist examine them.

Conclusion

As a first responder, you face numerous challenges on the job. However, one of the most insidious and preventable risks is skin cancer. In this blog post, we’ve discussed the risks and preventive measures you can take to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. You can lower your chance of developing skin cancer and put your health first at work by taking the required safeguards as discussed through this post. Don't forget to urge your fellow emergency personnel to follow suit. We can safeguard ourselves and one another better if we work together in encouraging prioritising skin protection!