Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month in Philadelphia

Posted May 6, 2015 by PHC | Uncategorized

As the weather warms up millions of Americans will rush outdoors to enjoy the sunshine, but it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Most people don’t think of wearing sunscreen in May as the temperatures are cooler and the sun doesn’t seem as intense as it does in the summer, however you can just as easily get sunburn in May as you can in July! According to the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, skin cancer is on the rise in the United States, and the American Cancer Society estimates that one American dies every hour from skin cancer. This year alone, the American Cancer Society estimates there will be more than 73,870 new cases of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, and more than two million new cases of basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers in the U.S. Fortunately skin cancer is highly curable if detected early, or better yet prevented. .It is important to apply sunscreen before going outdoors, wear tightly woven light clothing, sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to protect your skin from the sun. Make sure that your sunscreen is a broad spectrum SPF of 30 or higher and protects against UVA and UVB rays. Enjoy the sun responsibly and your skin will thank you!!

Upcoming blog: The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention Declares the Friday before Memorial Day, May 22, 2015 is “Don’t Fry Day” To Encourage Sun Safety Awareness!