Tag: melanoma

The sunscreen paradox: McGill University researchers warn of ‘false sense of security’

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The sunscreen paradox: McGill University researchers warn of ‘false sense of security’ “Sunscreen is important, says Dr. Ivan Litvinov, but it is also the least effective way to protect your skin when compared to sun protective clothing and sun avoidance.” “Sunscreen usage is climbing, but so are melanoma and skin cancer rates: this, researchers say, is the sunscreen paradox. The problem is that people use sunscreen as a ‘permission slip’ to tan,” said Dr. Ivan Litvinov, an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine and Chair of the Dermatology Division at McGill University.” The SunFit study includes Atlantic PATH participants and is highlighted in a new article from McGill University News: https://www.mcgill.ca/newsroom/channels/news/sunscreen-paradox-mcgill-university-researchers-warn-false-sense-security-352205

Melanoma Risk in Atlantic Canada

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New work from Dr. Ivan Litvinov and Dr. François Lagacé  at McGill University includes Atlantic PATH participants and highlights why Atlantic Canadians are at higher risk for developing melanoma (skin cancer). The SunFit project conducted focus groups in 22 communities across Atlantic Canada.  Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have the highest rates of melanoma in the country, while rates in New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador are in line with the Canadian average. The team compared UV exposure and relevant behavioural factors and found that higher-income participants had an increased risk, but that participants with a lower income were more likely to work outdoors and experience occupational sun exposure which increases their risk of developing melanoma. Further, females had less sun exposure and higher rates of sunscreen use compared to males. Additional information: Dr. Litvinov was interviewed on CBC’s Maritime Noon. “N.S. and P.E.I. have higher rats of skin cancer than national average. Here’s why.” August 22, 2023. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/maritimes-skin-cancer-national-average-1.6943582?cmp=rss) McGill University News Room. “Why men, wealthy people and maritime residents are more likely to develop skin cancer.” August 22, 2023.  https://www.mcgill.ca/newsroom/channels/news/why-men-wealthy-people-and-maritime-residents-are-more-likely-develop-skin-cancer-349697 Chronicle Herald article. “Dermatologist probes skin cancer rates.” September 7, 2023.  https://saltwire.pressreader.com/article/281552295441450    

New Publication – Skin Cancer & Atlantic Canada

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Atlantic PATH participants were invited to participate in the SunFit study led by Dr. Ivan Litvinov at McGill University. A new publication focuses on assessing skin cancer risk factors, sun safety behaviours and melanoma concern in Atlantic Canada. Melanoma skin cancer can largely be prevented through education, sun protection, screening, and public health campaigns. However, incidence rates have been increasing and the highest age-standardized incidence rates in Canada found in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island (27.66 and 30.94 cases per 100,000, respectively). In contrast, Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick have rates below or comparable to the Canadian average (16.63 and 19.99 per 100,000, respectively). The SunFit study found that participants in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island had higher overall rates of sun exposure, as well as the greatest percentage of the skin type with a predisposition to burn. The findings of the study suggest that increased sun exposure, rather than lack of awareness or use of sun protection, may be driving the higher rates of melanoma in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island compared to Newfoundland and Labrador. The Sun Fit project continues to expand this work to other Canadian regions.