Your BMC

Dr. Debjani Sahni, BMC dermatologist and director of the Cutaneous Oncology Multidisciplinary Program, shares practical ways to stay safe in the sun.   

What type of sunscreen do you recommend?     

There are two types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral. I recommend patients use mineral sunscreen lotions that contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Unlike some ingredients in chemical sunscreens, these ingredients do not penetrate the skin and have been heavily tested to be safe, including for children. Mineral sunscreen also tends to last longer; it doesn’t wipe or wash off as easily as a chemical sunscreen. An added bonus: Mineral sunscreens are better for the environment.     

What should I look for on sunscreen product labels?    

Look for sunscreen that has “broad spectrum” on its label. This means the product offers protection from both types of UV wavelengths, UVA and UVB. Both are involved in premature ageing of the skin and development of skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreens that are SPF 30 or higher. Additionally, scientific studies have shown that SPF values beyond 50 do not provide much additional protection, but can give a false sense of security. So a good sunscreen lotion should be broad spectrum, SPF 30-50 and ideally it should be water-resistant. Look for these labels on the sunscreen bottle.    

Besides sunscreen, what else can we do to protect our skin from the sun?     

Sun protection involves a multitude of things, none of which are fully effective on their own. Alongside the application of sunscreen, sun protection also includes seeking shade and wearing protective clothing. Do your best to avoid the direct midday sun and seek shade between 11 am and 3 pm. For clothing, look for items that carry a UV protective label or opt for layers from your wardrobe that cover your skin. Altogether, these measures make an effective sun safety routine. (Read more from our interview with Dr. Sahni) 

But in 2023, she started to notice a  significant change in her body. “I started having really heavy periods, and I had no idea why I was bleeding so much,” she says.    

After speaking with her primary care provider, Darlene was referred to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Boston Medical Center. After several tests, Darlene learned she had fibroids.    

“Fibroids? I was like what’s that? I had never heard of them.” Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that can grow in and around the uterus. In some cases, fibroids can even cause infertility and miscarriage.  

“Fibroids are very common, but they can lead to serious symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and pressure on surrounding organs,” says Dr. Nyia Noel, OB/GYN and Director of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at BMC. 

Dr. Noel and Darlene discussed her options and chose hysteroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure to remove the fibroids, along with an IUD. “I learned that with the IUD I would have a lighter period or no period at all, and that was appealing to me.” 

Darlene had her surgery in February 2024. “The surgery has been a game changer for me,” she says. “I can live my life again and don’t have to worry about bleeding through my clothes.” 

But the biggest difference in her life was enrolling in an eight-week fibroids research study to educate and support women with fibroids. “Dr. Noel reached out a few months after my surgery and asked if I wanted to participate, and I’m so glad I did.” 

to make a lot of mistakes, a lot of misdiagnoses and errors in treatment. We can’t set up one system and expect everybody to line up and work within that system.” His leadership has helped shape  more inclusive approaches to care that honor each patient’s full lived experience. 
 
This year, BMC Health System returns to Martha’s Vineyard with "Legacy and Longevity: Cultivating Black Health and Wealth," a two-day event held during the African American Film Festival. It’s a chance to connect with thought leaders, changemakers, and cultural influencers in a space grounded in legacy and belonging. 

Dr. Christine Crawford, BMC psychiatrist and national voice in mental health advocacy, will join fellow experts to speaks about  women’s mental health, parenting, and much more: 

“When you’re prioritizing taking care of others, picture pouring water into your 3-year-old and making sure she is cared for. You’re pouring water in your partner, your parents—nurturing all of these people every day. But who is watering your plant? When you’re dry and empty at the end of the day, who is filling you back up?” 

Through open dialogue, inclusive care, and community connection, BMC continues to advance equitable mental health access for all. 

hepatitis early and help prevent serious complications. BMC’s Liver Clinic team is dedicated to supporting patients’ liver health. They use advanced diagnostic tools to screen for hepatitis A, B, and C, and provide expert care for a wide range of liver conditions.  

The CDC recommends that all adults ages 18 and older get screened for hepatitis B and C at least once. Talk with your primary care provider today about getting tested. 

Events

Announcements

Awards

BMC In The News

We’re excited to spotlight recent media coverage that features BMC experts sharing insights on timely health topics. From national outlets to local platforms, these stories reflect our commitment to improving care, advancing equity, and supporting our patients and communities every step of the way.

In Your Words

Helpful Links