Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month? Are you protecting yourself?

Over 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

By raising awareness of the dangers of unprotected exposure and encouraging sun-safe habits, we can save lives.

Five ways to prevent skin cancer:

1. Use sunscreen. Choose a product labeled “broad spectrum,” which protects against UVA and UVB rays. Go for a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Check the label for how often to reapply; generally, at least every two hours or every 80 minutes if swimming.
2. Cover up. Wear tightly woven clothing and a wide-brim hat to protect skin.
3. Avoid tanning beds. Young people are especially vulnerable to increased melanoma risk with early UV exposure.
4. You’re not protected just because it’s cloudy.
5. Have yearly screenings at a dermatologist.

For more information on skin cancer, visit www.skincancer.org.

Nancy Roe
Author