Skin Safety Strategies for Oncology Patients

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, with the final slated for MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, public health experts are warning of a significant unseen opponent: the sun.

For oncology nurses, this global event serves as a critical reminder to educate patients about heightened skin sensitivity following cancer treatment.

The vulnerability of oncology patients

While the general public faces risks from what is expected to be one of the hottest venues of the tournament, patients undergoing active treatment are at a much higher risk. Diane Stanaway, MSN, RN, NE-BC, OCN, ONN-CG, an oncology nurse navigator at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center and herself a skin cancer survivor, emphasized that protection is mandatory for those receiving systemic or localized therapies.

"With chemo and with radiation, it's important to protect the skin," Stanaway said in an interview with Oncology Nursing News. "So they want to use a sunscreen, there's the new one out that was really would be beneficial to those patients."

The "new one" Stanaway refers to coincides with a landmark development in sun protection: the first new FDA-approved sunscreen ingredient in over 25 years, bemotrizinol. This ingredient, long used in Europe, offers advanced protection just as the U.S. prepares for this massive outdoor event.

A long-term commitment to protection

One of the most critical messages Stanaway shares with her patients is that skin vulnerability does not end when treatment concludes. The biological changes to the skin can persist for a significant duration, making long-term vigilance essential.

"The important thing too is to remember that they need to protect their skin after the treatment also," Stanaway noted. "It's going to be a lasting effect months to years both for chemo patients and patients that have had radiation."

Preparation for major events

For fans planning to attend World Cup matches, concerts, or other outdoor celebrations, Stanaway advises a "think ahead" approach to sun safety. She recommends a multi-layered strategy that goes beyond topical creams.

"The wide-brim hat, the long sleeves, the pants, stay in the shade if you can, as much as possible," Stanaway advised. She urged patients and survivors to "go prepared" if they are attending a stadium event or concert, acknowledging that "you might be in the sun" for extended periods.

The national health context

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by rising skin cancer rates. In 2026 alone, an estimated 112,000 new cases of invasive melanoma are projected in the U.S. Data shows that a person’s risk for melanoma doubles if they have had more than five sunburns, and regular use of SPF 15 or higher can reduce that risk by 50%. As the official healthcare partner for the NY/NJ host city, Hackensack Meridian Health is leveraging the World Cup platform to address this public health crisis, ensuring both the general public and vulnerable oncology populations are equipped with the knowledge and tools to stay safe.