January 31, 2020
New study raises potential concerns over sunscreen ingredient
A new study released by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reveals some of the current ingredients used in sunscreens (homosalate, octisalate and octinoxate) are absorbed by the skin. These ingredients, known as filters, are compounds that protect the skin from sun damage. The study confirms findings from an FDA pilot study conducted last year which concluded four of these filters (avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene and ecamsule) are also absorbed through the skin.
However, despite the findings, the FDA warns consumers that they should NOT discontinue their use of sunscreens with these filters, as it has not yet concluded that they are unsafe for use.
In addition to sunscreen, the FDA encourages other actions to protect yourself from the sun stating:“ Broad spectrum sunscreens with SPF values of at least 15 are only one element of a skin-cancer prevention strategy that should also include other sun protective behaviors such as wearing protective clothing that adequately covers the arms, torso, and legs; wearing sunglasses and a hat that provides adequate shade to the whole head; and seeking shade whenever possible during periods of peak sunlight.”
After the results of both studies confirmed absorption through the skin, the FDA notes additional research is needed to determine the extent to which the filters impact the body. It suggested manufacturers conduct their own research to examine their products and investigate alternative options should they pose risks to consumers. Until such research is conducted, continue to wear sunscreen and other protective clothing to Stop Cancer Before It Starts®.
Register for the Prevent Cancer Advocacy Workshop
*New speakers announced!*
The annual Prevent Cancer Advocacy Workshop will be held on Wednesday, March 25 at the FHI 360 Conference Center in Washington, DC. The day will be filled with engaging conversations and exciting networking opportunities with other policy and advocacy professionals. We hope you can join!
The workshop is a FREE event and will serve as a forum for patients, providers, advocacy organizations and other stakeholders to engage in a dialogue around issues regarding hereditary cancers, somatic mutations and biomarkers. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of the role these factors play in prevention and early detection and solutions to improve patient awareness and engagement.
Supreme Court denies request to review ACA case
Last week the Supreme Court denied a request from the democratic attorneys general to conduct an expedited review of Texas v. US during the current term before the Court breaks for summer recess. The decision comes after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit ruled in favor of a previous decision from a lower court declaring the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) individual mandate (the requirement to purchase insurance) was unconstitutional.
While the 5th Circuit ruled on the mandate, it sent the case back to the lower court to determine which components of the ACA could be severed and stand alone. Without the expedited review from the Supreme Court, a decision will not be made before the election later this year.
With the Court’s decision, the fate of the ACA remains uncertain. Millions of people across the country have expressed concerns over pre-existing conditions preventing them from access to insurance coverage.
However, while the case continues in court, the law remains in effect, meaning nothing will immediately change.
This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as they become available.
