Sunscreen Confusion Raises Melanoma Concerns
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and a new national survey is highlighting growing confusion surrounding sunscreen safety and daily sun protection.
The survey, released by the Melanoma Research Alliance, found many Americans remain skeptical about sunscreen despite medical recommendations encouraging regular use to help prevent skin cancer.
According to the findings, 53% of Americans say they have seen claims suggesting sunscreen ingredients may be harmful, while 59% say they are concerned about chemicals in sunscreen products.
Additionally, 38% of respondents said they do not believe sunscreen is both safe and effective.
The survey also found widespread confusion about how sunscreen works.
Nearly half of respondents said they are unsure about the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreen, and only 32% could correctly explain how the two types function.
“In our survey, we heard almost 60% of respondents mentioned concerns that they had read on the Internet about ingredients in sunscreens,” said Dr. Marc Hurlbert.
“I would like to confirm sunscreen manufactured and provided in stores in the U.S. are safe and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA regulates sunscreen just like they do over-the-counter drugs, so anything you can buy at your grocery store, or pharmacy is safe and effective,” Dr. Marc Hurlbert continued.
Researchers say misunderstandings about sun exposure may also be contributing to increased melanoma risk.
More than half of respondents did not realize repeated short periods of sun exposure can increase the risk of melanoma, while 67% did not recognize that everyday exposure, including time spent driving, can contribute to skin damage.
The survey showed sun protection habits remain inconsistent. Only half of Americans said they regularly wear sunscreen outdoors, and just 38% reported using sunscreen during everyday activities.
The Melanoma Research Alliance says melanoma remains one of the most preventable cancers and encourages people to practice daily sun safety, including wearing sunscreen and limiting UV exposure.
