Like a little gray cloud scuttling along on an otherwise blue-sky summer day, here comes a revival of the debate about skin cancer and the protection provided by sunscreens. Takes the joy right out of backyard lounging.

Of course, having good information about protection against skin cancer is important. And no doubt this is the time of year to get people’s attention. But there must be a better way to go about than the tactic taken by the American Academy of Dermatology, which is making so much noise about it now.

The most recent tanning tangle started during the winter, when a researcher at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York looked at 10 studies on the possible association between the use of sunscreen and the development of melanoma. She concluded that it was difficult to conclude anything from the work:

Of the 10 studies Dr. Marianne Berwick examined, five showed a positive association; three showed no association; and in two there were significant protection effects brought about by the use of sunscreen. Dr. Berwick also reported flaws in the evidence for the usefulness of sunscreens. She told the Dermatology Association all this back in February, recognizing that some of the studies occurred before the effects of the higher SPF sunscreens could be measured.

The association sent out a press release this week attacking Dr. Berwick’s study because it “incorrectly claimed that sunscreens do not protect against skin cancer.” But she didn’t. As she told the association, all she said was, “I do not feel it is safe for the public to assume that sunscreens will unequivocally protect them from developing melanoma skin cancer.” People who have a predisposition to melanoma “should understand their risk, avoid sun exposure and not have a false sense of security if they use sunscreens.”

Logical. Measured. Cautious. Apparently, the doctors’ association objects to these, so it is going after her through press releases. There’s no word yet whether the attack also will be carried out through the Block the Sun, Not the Fun promotional campaign it has with Coppertone sunscreen products.

In any event, both sides agree that sunscreen prevents sunburn and should be used along with a hat, sunglasses, etc. Enjoy the summer.