May is Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month

Posted May 2, 2016 by PHC | Uncategorized

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and it is estimated that one person dies from melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer — every hour. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to make sure their skin is “Looking Good in 2016” by protecting it from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and checking it for signs of skin cancer.

How can I prevent skin cancer?

Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma. You can have fun at the ballpark and decrease your risk of skin cancer. Here’s how:

• Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more to all exposed skin. “Broad-spectrum” provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, after swimming or sweating. The 7th inning stretch is a perfect time to reapply sunscreen.

• Seek shade when appropriate. Remember that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If your shadow appears to be shorter than you are, seek shade.

• Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses where possible.

• Check your skin for signs of skin cancer. Checking your skin and knowing your moles are key to detecting skin cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. If you spot anything changing, growing or bleeding, see your dermatologist.

For more prevention tips or to learn how you can spot skin cancer, visit the Academy’s SPOT Skin Cancer™ home page @ https://www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer.

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