Summer is finally here and we are all ready to spend some time in the great outdoors. Although we know we should wear sunscreen and be aware of how much time we spend in the sun, it is easy to forget just how important it is.
Get the facts:
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States
- 1 in 5 adults will have skin cancer by the age of 70
- The best way to reduce the signs of aging isn’t by purchasing the newest, most expensive anti-aging product, but by wearing sunscreen and reducing sun exposure
- There is no such thing as a “healthy tan”
- People of color are at risk for skin cancer too and are more likely to be diagnosed too late. Bob Marley died at the age of 36 from skin cancer.
- Protect your eyes – 10% of cataract cases are attributable to UV Exposure
- At least 2 people die every hour in the US from skin cancer
- Check out https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/skin-cancer-screenings/find-a-screening to find free screenings in your area
Check your skin once a month for:
- A growth that increases in size and appears pearly, transparent, tan, brown, black, or multicolored
- A mole, birthmark or brown spot that increases in size, thickness, changes color or texture, or is bigger than a pencil eraser. Learn the ABCDEs of melanoma
- A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab or bleed
- An open sore that does not heal within three weeks
*skincancer.org
When in doubt, get it checked out! If you notice something new, changing, or unusual, make an appointment with your physician or dermatologist.