"Many instances of sunburn caused by dangerous exposure to
the sun have occurred in the chareidi sector," warns
Professor Refael Shafir, chairman of the Committee for the
Early Detection of the Israel Association for the War Against
Cancer.
A study conducted a number of years ago by Professor Shafir
noted a significantly low rate of melanoma in the chareidi
sector. Chareidim generally wear long clothing and spend less
time at beaches and pools than others.
However, Professor Shafir stressed that chareidim must not be
complacent about the hazards of the sun. "There are enough
instances of melanoma among chareidim, too, precisely because
they are less exposed to the sun all year round and their
skin is pale. When they go to the beach in the summer they
become prone to sunburn; unaware of the hazards of the sun,
they remain there for long periods, even during the dangerous
hours. We treat many people in this sector with sunburn,
small children in particular. It is very important to protect
children from sunburn, which increases the risk of developing
cancer at a later age."
