According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. Sadly, one person dies of melanoma (the most dangerous form of skin cancer) every hour.
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells which most commonly develops in areas of skin exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun or tanning beds. Sometimes genetics and environmental factors play a role. Additionally, anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of skin color. With prevention and early detection though, skin cancer is highly treatable. MORE HEALTH wants you to make good decisions when it comes to skin protection. Practice these healthy habits from the Skin Cancer Foundation to prevent the effects of sun damage in your family.
♥Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s ultraviolet rays are strongest.
♥Do not burn.
♥Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
♥Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
♥Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
♥Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
♥Examine your skin from head-to-toe every month.
♥See your dermatologist every year for a professional skin exam.
♥Avoid tanning and do not utilize tanning beds.
Other Resources
Skin Cancer Education♥SkinCancer.org
SPOT Skin Cancer ™♥AAD.org
Health in the News
Skin Cancer Causes and Risk Factors that Might Surprise You♥Prevention.com
Skin Cancer is On the Rise♥Allure.com
Does Sunscreen Have an Expiration Date?♥ConsumerReports.com
MORE HEALTH Lesson Makes a Difference!
