Health Country January 22, 2025

Doctors Warn Cancer Patients About Sun Exposure

Doctors warn cancer patients to avoid sun exposure due to increased skin sensitivity from treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. It's advised to stay indoors during peak sun hours from 10 AM to 3 PM for safety.


Doctors Warn Cancer Patients About Sun Exposure

The address of non-surgical doctors for people suffering from cancer or undergoing treatment recommends avoiding direct exposure to sunlight due to various treatment courses that can make the skin more sensitive. Doctors say that patients with cancer should receive recommendations on avoiding direct sunlight exposure, especially from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the rays are usually the most intense. They specify that chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause a number of effects, increasing skin sensitivity to the sun, exposing a healthy individual to significant risks.

**The aforementioned treatment methods can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight: - Chemotherapy: skin may become more sensitive to the sun during treatment and even after its completion for several months. - Radiation therapy: can cause skin sensitivity, especially in treated areas, and this sensitivity may persist for a long time after treatment, and in some cases may be permanent. - Certain antibacterial preparations. - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory preparations. - Certain anti-nausea preparations. **

Doctors warn that this sensitivity may vary among different people after the end of treatment. In cases of sunburn or the appearance of rashes from sunlight, it is recommended to consult a general practitioner or specialists for oncology patients. Patients may need antibiotics to prevent infections.

After cancer treatment, patients suffering from lymphedema (chronic condition resulting in tissue swelling, usually affecting the arms or legs), are advised to avoid sun exposure at home, as well as to avoid insect bites.

**Tips for protecting skin from the sun during treatment: - Avoid direct sunlight exposure from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Ensure protection on cloudy days, when ultraviolet rays can penetrate through clouds. - Use sunscreen with SPF30 at a minimum. - Wear loose clothing with long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat. - Do not forget to protect lips with sunscreen balm. - Seek shade or use an umbrella for sun protection. - Wear sunglasses that protect against ultraviolet rays. - Maintain skin moisturization. - If you swim, be sure to shower immediately afterward to avoid chlorine exposure. - Avoid fragrances and chemical products that can increase the sensitivity of your skin. **