Press Release

ATTENTION: CITY DESK/ ASSIGNMENT EDITORS
Contact: Tom Capezzuto
(973) 972-7273
E-mail: capezzta@umdnj.edu

UMDNJ Dermatologist Warns Beach Goers, Sun Worshipers of Melanoma Dangers

With beaches and swims clubs slated to open for the Memorial Day weekend, the heat of the summer sun is a welcome sign for sun worshipers seeking a bronzed look. While a tan darkens the skin and creates sex appeal, there is nothing sexy about melanoma, says a dermatologist at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ).

"Melanoma remains preventable, but it has reached epidemic proportions in recent years," said Dr. Frank P. Murphy, chief of the Division of Dermatology at the UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick. "Those with fair complexions are particularly susceptible to damage from the sun's harmful rays, which may trigger skin cancer."

Melanoma, Dr. Murphy explained, is a malignant tumor of pigment-forming skin cells and may be caused by over-exposure to the sun. The disease, which may also affect the eyes and mucous membranes, spreads quickly and can be fatal.

To avoid the risk of painful sunburn and possibly developing melanoma, Dr. Murphy suggests the following:

• .Use a sun screen lotion that contains an SPF of 30 or more, which should be applied liberally and repeatedly on all exposed body parts. The sun screen should provide both UVA and UVB protection.


• .Wear clothing or use a towel to cover your torso and legs when sitting in the sun.


• .Use a hat and protective umbrella.


• .Wear sun glasses because ultra-violet rays have been known to impair children's vision and can contribute to early cataracts in older people.


• .Apply lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 to prevent sun blisters.


• .Keep bottled water or a sports drink with you to prevent heat exhaustion or dehydration.

To arrange an interview with Dr. Murphy, call Tom Capezzuto, UMDNJ News Service, at (973) 972-7273.

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