Skin cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide and is closely linked to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In Chile, where solar radiation levels are high for much of the year, this risk is further intensified by increasingly frequent heatwaves and episodes of extreme temperatures.
Although high temperatures alone do not cause skin cancer, they are typically associated with stronger UV radiation and behavioural changes that increase sun exposure. Spending longer periods outdoors and reducing protective clothing are common responses to heat, creating conditions that favour cumulative and often unnoticed skin damage.
Cumulative damage and long-term consequences
Health specialists stress that solar damage does not occur only during visible sunburn episodes. According to Nayibeth Andrade, Product Manager at Cetaphil in Chile, skin damage caused by UV radiation is frequently silent and progressive, accumulating over time and potentially leading to cellular mutations that may develop into cancer years later.
She emphasises that daily use of sunscreen should be regarded as a fundamental skin care habit rather than a seasonal precaution. This recommendation applies even on cloudy days or in urban environments, where UV exposure remains significant.
Scientific evidence supports daily protection
Data from the Skin Cancer Foundation reinforce the protective role of sunscreen when applied correctly and consistently. Regular daily use has been shown to reduce the risk of squamous cell carcinoma by approximately 40% and melanoma by nearly 50%.
For effective protection, experts recommend applying sunscreen in sufficient quantities and reapplying it every two to three hours, particularly during periods of intense heat or prolonged outdoor exposure. These measures are especially relevant in countries such as Chile, where UV indices frequently reach high or extreme levels.
Prevention as a public health priority
As rising temperatures and increased UV radiation become more common, prevention plays a crucial role in safeguarding long-term health. Incorporating sunscreen into daily routines, alongside complementary measures such as seeking shade and wearing protective clothing, represents a practical and evidence-based approach to reducing cumulative skin damage.
Public health authorities and dermatology specialists agree that consistent sun protection is essential to lowering future skin cancer rates, particularly in regions with sustained high solar exposure like Chile.