Using a sunscreen regularly can reduce the incidence of two of the most common skin cancers by as much as 80%, a Harvard Medical School study found. But despite more than 400,000 annual cases of sun-related skin cancer, public awareness of the benefits of using a high-protection sunscreen is surprisingly low, it said.
"Simply by applying an SPF 15 sunscreen to their face, neck, upper chest and arms each summer day until they are 18, children can substantially reduce their risk of non-melanoma skin cancer," Dr. Robert Stern said. "And, for those who remain committed to tanning, they should remember that unprotected exposure can greatly accelerate aging of the skin."
