Skin cancer prevention starts with you!
posted by Amber Brady on May 2, 2022
Get the facts about skin cancer
- Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. and worldwide.
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.
- Every hour, more than 2 people die of skin cancer.
- If you catch skin cancer early enough, you can be A-OK.
- Your risk for melanoma doubles if you’ve had more than 5 sunburns.
- Regular daily use of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces your risk of melanoma by 50%.
9 ways you can protect your skin
- Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Don’t get sunburned.
- Avoid tanning, and never use UV tanning beds.
- Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Keep newborns out of the sun. Use sunscreen on babies over the age of six months.
- 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.
- Apply 1 ounce of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
- See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam.
For more information, visit SkinCancer.org.
Resources:
- Skin Cancer Foundation (flyer)
- American Cancer Society (infographic)