Posted by Fionna Kopp on July 20, 2021
Sun safety is important for everyone, but if you are living with IBD (and taking certain medications) it may be even more important for you to protect your skin from the sun.
Dr. Steve Steiner, physician leader at Riley Hospital for Children, shared that he talks to his IBD patients about sun safety for two big reasons:
- Because some IBD medications (classically sulfasalazine, 6MP, azathioprine and Methotrexate) cause photosensitivity.
- Because of the immunosuppressive effects of many IBD medications, these patients are at increased long term risk of skin cancer.
The Skin Cancer Foundation defines photosensitivity as heightened skin sensitivity or an unusual reaction when your skin is exposed to UV radiation from sunlight or a tanning bed.
So, what can you do to learn more & protect yourself from the sun? We asked Patient Advisory Council members to share their sun safety knowledge and tips for protecting their skin. Here's what they said:
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PAC Moments is a series of short posts with information, knowledge & know how from members of the Patient Advisory Council. We share them #InTheLOOP as a way to reach more people and raise more awareness of IBD. We hope you'll share these with others and ask them to take a moment to read + learn more about #LifeWithIBD 💚💙
Fionna and Vanessa are co-leads of the PAC Communications taskforce. In this role, they help PAC members share their IBD stories and experiences on social media, #InTheLOOP and across the IBD Community - to raise awareness, build community and help others with IBD know they are not alone. You can connect with Fionna, Vanessa and the PAC on social media @ICNPatients or by visiting improvecarenow.org/patients and completing the contact form.