MAY 14 & 28 | 5 to 8 PM MAY IS SKIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH As the most common cancer in the United States, new skin cancer cases are diagnosed at a rate of at least 5 million cases per year. And while it is a very common cancer, it doesn’t have to be! In fact, skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers of today. One of the best hopes for helping to lower incidences of skin cancer is to inform the public and raise awareness about this disease and the important steps to take toward prevention. This is the purpose behind Skin Cancer Awareness Month. One of the most important messages to send in honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month is arming and equipping the public on how to prevent skin cancer. Check out some of these ways to get started lowering the risk: Skin Cancer Prevention Starts with You! Get the Facts About Skin Cancer Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. and worldwide. If you catch skin cancer early enough, you can be A-OK. 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Your risk for melanoma doubles if you’ve had more than 5 sunburns. Every hour, more than 2 people die of skin cancer. Regular daily use of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces your risk of melanoma by 50%. 9 Ways You Can Protect Your Skin 1. Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. 4. Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. 2. Don’t get sunburned. 3. Avoid tanning, and never use UV tanning beds. 5. Keep newborns out of the sun. Use sunscreen on babies over the age of six months. 6. 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 sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 7. Apply 1 ounce of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. 8. Examine your skin head-to-toe every month. 9. See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam. ©2021 The Skin Cancer Foundation A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization [EIN: 13-2948778] For more information, visit SkinCancer.org
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