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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Scuba Diving, Excessive Sun Exposure and Melanoma

Article by Marc Morale

As scuba divers we are familiar with the beauty of the underwater world and we are taught to protect it. We’re told not to touch, only take pictures & leave bubbles and perhaps wear a rash guard head to toe so we don’t get scratched or cut. But there is another risk facing divers. Extra sun exposure. Divers are exposed to a significant amount of sunlight, often intensified by reflection off the water’s surface. While enjoying shipwrecks, coral reefs and marine life, it’s important we don’t forget the risks of excessive sunlight, particularly melanoma which is a form of skin cancer.

Sunlight’s Underwater Reach

Many divers mistakenly believe that being underwater protects them from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, this is far from the truth. Depth in water offers limited protection against the sun’s UV rays and at the surface divers are exposed to direct & reflected sunlight.

– UV Penetration: UV rays can penetrate several yards into the water column.

– Reflection: The water’s surface acts as a reflective surface, amplifying the sun’s intensity.

– Extended Exposure: Diving can last for extended periods, compounding the risk.

– Tropical Locations: Popular diving destinations are often in tropical regions with intense sunlight.

Recognizing Melanoma

Early detection of melanoma is critical for treatment. Divers should be vigilant about any changes in their skin. The “ABCDEs” of melanoma are a helpful guide:

A – Asymmetry: One half of the spot is unlike the other half.

B – Border: The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.

C – Color: The spot has varying colors from one area to another, such as shades of tan, brown, black, sometimes white, red, or blue.

D – Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser, when diagnosed, they can be smaller.

E – Evolving: The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.

Other Warning Signs

– A sore that doesn’t heal.

– Spread of pigment beyond the border into the surrounding skin.

– Redness or a new swelling beyond the border.

– Change in sensation, such as itchiness, tenderness, or pain.

If you notice any of these signs, consider seeking medical attention from a dermatologist.

Responding to Melanoma Concern:

Identifying and treating melanoma is best handled between you and your Health Care Professional.

Protecting Your Skin

Prevention is key to minimizing the risk of melanoma. Divers can take several steps to protect their skin:

– Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours (or more). Pay close attention to areas often missed, such as the ears, neck, and scalp. Also be aware, some diving destinations have prohibitions on certain types of sunscreens. Ask your local dive professional for advice.

– Protective Clothing: Wear rash guards, wetsuits and other protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating.

– Hats and Sunglasses: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your face and eyes.

– Limit Sun Exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

– Regular Skin Checks: Conduct regular self-exams of your skin and schedule annual skin checks with a dermatologist.

– Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated helps your skin to stay healthy.

– Awareness of reflection: remember that sunlight reflects off of the water, and off of white surfaces on boats.

A Responsible Diver

Being a responsible diver means not only respecting the marine environment but also taking care of your own health. By understanding the risks of excessive sun exposure and taking preventive measures, divers can continue to enjoy the underwater world safely.

Pictures by Freepik

1 reply

Franklin Brown says:
May 9, 2025 at 12:33 pm

Great advice! I know this will motivate me to encourage my students to take these extra precautions!
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