HEALTH AND WELLNESS
should take precautionary measures to help them prevent this disease.
“ Since most outdoor workers are exposed to the sun during peak hours of the day, it’ s vital they adopt sun protection measures as part of their daily routine to safeguard against skin cancer,” said boardcertified dermatologist Bruce Brod, M. D., MHCI, FAAD, a clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
When not diagnosed and treated early, skin cancer can be locally destructive and, in some cases, metastasize( spread) or even become fatal. But there is good news: Skin cancer is often preventable. While working under the sun is unavoidable for many, outdoor workers can make efforts to keep their skin safe throughout the workday. Those whose professions mandate that they are outside for part of the day should ensure that they are protecting themselves from the sun’ s harmful rays.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that outdoor workers:
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing, including hands.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often if heavily sweating.
Cover up with clothing made of dark, tightly woven fabrics. When possible, choose clothing certified with an ultraviolet protection factor( known as UPF) of 50 or higher. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV-protective lenses. Take breaks indoors or in a shady spot, especially during peak sun hours from 10 a. m. to 4 p. m.
The Skin Cancer Foundation also recommends that employers provide access to areas shaded by tents, awnings or trees during the workday. The Foundation suggests that employers provide training for their workforce about the dangers of unprotected UV exposure. If employees are required to wear uniforms, management can consider choosing tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and allow employees to wear sun-protective hats and sunglasses.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone see a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam. Outdoor workers who have experienced extensive sun damage might be instructed by their physicians to have their skin examined more frequently. Outdoor workers should also examine their own skin from head to toe every month, looking for anything new, changing or unusual.
“ If you have a lot of moles or growths on your skin that you’ re not sure about, a family history of skin cancer, you’ ve spent a lot of time in the sun, or you’ ve had even one severe sunburn, you owe it to yourself to get your skin checked by a board-certified dermatologist,” said Brod.
To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad. org / findaderm.
Some important days during Skin Cancer Awareness Month:
Melanoma Monday— The first Monday in May is“ Melanoma Monday,” raising awareness about this potentially deadly form of skin cancer. It is estimated that more than 200,000 cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the U. S. in 2026. The good news is that melanoma is highly curable when detected early.
Don’ t Fry Day— The Friday before Memorial Day is“ Don’ t Fry Day.” If you are headed outdoors for the holiday weekend, remember to protect your skin from the sun’ s harmful UV rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just five sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma.
AK Day— Take the“ Hats On” challenge on“ Actinic Keratosis( AK) Day,” May 24. Wearing a hat helps to prevent this common skin condition that can develop into skin cancer. AK is a precancerous skin condition that commonly appears as rough, scaly patches on the face, scalp and ears.
For a downloadable handout,“ Outdoor Workers: Protect Your Skin,” visit https:/ www. skincancer. org / risk-factors / working-outdoors /# pdf
For more information about Skin Cancer Awareness Month, visit Skin- Cancer. org. sportsfieldmanagementonline. com May 2026 | SportsField Management
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