Cancer Prevention
Grab Your Hat and Shades
When You Head Out This Summer
Skin Cancer is the most common cancer in the United States.
It is also the most preventable.
The sun’s rays, called solar radiation or ultraviolet rays (UV) cause at least 90 percent of skin cancers.
Remind your family that they need protection from the sun…..
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Make sure to use sunscreen with at least a SPF of 15 “Sun Protection Factor”
even on cloudy days. -
Apply at least an ounce of lotion on your body at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun. Re-apply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
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Teach kids how to apply sunscreen and keep babies out of the sun.
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Wear your hat. Choose a hat that provides shade for all of your head and neck. Tightly woven fabric, such as canvas, works best to protect your skin from UV rays.
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Grab your shades. Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.
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Protect your lips with lip balm that has an SPF of at least 15.
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Avoid sun exposure during peak hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Anyone can get skin cancer but certain people may have an even greater risk.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
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Blonde, red or light brown hair color
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Fair complexion and/or freckles
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Sun sensitive skin that burns easily
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Use of some prescription medications that increase sun sensitivity
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Family history of skin cancer
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Presence of a congenital mole (since birth)
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Several moles
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Unusual or atypical moles
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One or more large or irregularly pigmented lesions.
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Suppressed immune system
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Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, and radiation therapy
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Excessive exposure to the sun and repeated blistering sunburns before age 15
Take care of yourself and examine your skin monthly for signs of skin cancer. Look for the following characteristics in moles and see your doctor if you discover a suspicious growth.
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Asymmetry
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Border irregularity
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Color that is not uniform
- Diameter greater than 6 mm