Skin Cancer In The Military-A Silent Threat

This article was previously published on Dr. James Goydos' Medium.

Veterans Day is one of the few days out of the year that is nationally recognized in the United States which honor the many people who have served in the armed forces over the two centuries that we have formally been a nation, and the years prior to 1776. While many rightly honor the sacrifice that the millions have made over the years in their service to America, there is one sacrifice that may go unnoticed: the additional risk that those in the armed forces face regarding skin cancer.

When we think of dangers posed in the trenches or on the battlefield, in the water or above the ground, we may think of arms or missiles. Guaranteed these are certainly risks veterans face, but there is another which is perhaps more silent: sun exposure.

Studies have shown that members of the armed forces are at a disproportionate risk of developing skin cancers due, in part, to increased exposure to harmful UV radiation from the sun. While the incidence of exposure may vary across the forces, the occupational hazard of sun exposure is a very real one.

To date, a comprehensive analysis of skin cancer incidence across individual branches has not yet been completed. However, there is an increased risk whether at land, sea, or air. Studies to date illustrate that the risk of melanoma does seem branch dependent, with the highest rates of melanoma in the United States Air Force. Melanoma is the second most common cancer in males in the U.S. Navy.

Why is this important?

We all have skin, and we all burn under the same sun. Regardless of race, genetic predispositions to skin cancer, or other variables which can influence the likelihood of developing skin cancer, all humans are vulnerable. Melanoma and other forms of skin cancer do not discriminate. While genetics and certain variables can influence the risk of developing skin cancer, there are both genetic and environmental factors which influence the probability of developing skin cancer. With all of these facts in mind, 1 out of every 5 persons will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States and is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide. Every person is potentially vulnerable to skin damage via harmful UV exposure, from the sun as well as artificial sources of UV radiation such as tanning beds.

Additional hazards introduced in the forces can complicate the variables predisposing individuals to developing skin cancer. Many can opt to stay indoors during peak times of UV intensity, but this is often not an option for those whose career requires consistent outdoor exposure.

For those who have dedicated their lives to service to the nation, to those who work in other outdoors occupations, taking additional precautions to safeguard the skin is essential.

What can you do?

One of the most important things you can do to protect your skin is to take the proper precautions. Where possible, wearing protective clothing is a great means to prevent unnecessary skin exposure. Of course, in the armed forces, considering the requirements of uniform, this is not always possible.

There may be limited access to protective clothing, shade, and sunglasses when such things are permitted. However, sunscreen is something that many may be able to accommodate by ensuring it is part of their pack. Sunscreen is light weight, so should not add too much heft to a bag. It should be a part of everyone’s essentials, when possible. Most importantly, be mindful of the amount of time you are exposed to the sun. This wisdom holds true for the military, as well as civilians. Care for your skin, and it will care for you.

About James Goydos, M.D.

Dr. James Goydos is an expert in melanoma research and specialist in surgical oncology with an M.D. from Rutgers University. With over 20 years of experience as a Professor, Surgeon, and Clinical Trial Lead, he is a leading expert in his field.