Sunburn and Skin Cancers

The incidence of skin cancer has been increasing in the general population for the past several years, and the amount of sun exposure remains the most important risk factor. Athletes should be taught basic prevention measures, such as avoiding sunburn by using sunscreen and protective clothing as well as avoiding sun exposure during peak ultraviolet B (UVB) hours. Sunburn is the painful, erythematous reaction of the skin in [Page 1424]response to excessive sun exposure that often afflicts athletes who spend many hours training outdoors. In the United States, 30% to ...