Did you know May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month? Join us at Horizon Family Medical Group in sharing this article with friends and family to encourage early screening and sun safety.
Call for your appointment today:
Dr. Hank A. Greenblatt
(845) 561-1565
WHO GETS SKIN CANCER?
More than 3 million people get skin cancer each year in the U.S.? That’s roughly the same as the population of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine…combined. Fortunately, skin cancer is often treatable when caught early. It’s also one type of cancer that people can prevent, or decrease their chances of getting. [1]
WHAT CAUSES SKIN CANCER?
Skin cancer is often caused by the ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tanning beds and sun lamps also produce UV radiation. Exposure to UV radiation can cause skin cancer, or the most dangerous type of skin cancer: melanoma. [2]
CAN I PREVENT SKIN CANCER?
One of the best ways to avoid getting skin cancer is to practice sun safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have several tips you and your loved ones can follow to enjoy the sunny outdoors and still be safe:
- “Seek shade, especially during midday hours.
- Cover up with clothing to protect exposed skin.
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears.
- Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays as possible.
- Use sunscreen with broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection and a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher.
- Remember to reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.” [3]
SKIN CANCER RESOURCES
Below are a few great resources you can share with friends and family.
RESOURCES:
- https://www.skincancer.org/get-involved/skin-cancer-awareness-month
- https://healthfinder.gov/NHO/MayToolkit2.aspx
- https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/skincancer/index.htm