At Risk

Sun-damage Risk Factors

Sun-damage accumulates over time and it is a lifetime of sun exposure, rather than recent sunbathing that adds to your risk. Skin types can also determine the level of risk and should be taken into consideration:

• Blonde or red haired people are more at risk in the sun
• As are people with blue, green or grey eyes
• Fair skin has less protective pigment and so burns more easily
• Even olive or darker skinned people can experience sun-damage, especially if they have spent a large amount of time in hot countries or in jobs that have involved working out of doors a great deal.

High-risk Occupations

At risk from the sunSome occupations, such as the following, can also increase your level of risk:

• The construction industry
• Farming and agriculture
• Commercial gardening
• Forestry
• Park keeping
• Road maintenance
• Game keeping
• Tour guides
• Beach work
• Lifeguards
• Leisure boat crews
• Professional sportsmen and women
• Outdoor interests/hobbies

People who have a weakened immune system as a result of chemotherapy cancer treatment, AIDS or organ transplantation are also at a higher risk.