Skin Cancer Awareness Month : Ross Insurance Agency

Summer is quickly approaching and many of us will be participating in outdoor activities. The month of May is ?National Skin Cancer Awareness Month?. Skin cancer is very common and more dangerous than some people are aware of.? One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lives. Skin cancer can happen to absolutely anyone. In a recent study it was found to be more common in young women, mainly due to tanning. I must admit, I used to use indoor tanning. I recently stopped after my Grandma was diagnosed with skin cancer. I realized how quickly someone could get it and the scary reality of it. Although skin cancer is in fact common, there is some good news.? Skin cancer is mainly categorized as a ?lifestyle disease? which means it can be highly preventable.? In order to lower your risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer, it is important to remember these few simple tips.

• Always wear sunscreen when participating in outdoor activities. Apply fifteen minutes prior to going outside. Re-apply after swimming or any physical activity that causes you to sweat. When you burn it highly increases your chance of getting melanoma.
• Between 10am-4pm the sun is at its strongest. Try to keep in the shade when you are outdoors during this time.
• Avoid tanning booths. UV radiation in tanning beds has caused cancer to many individuals. By tanning indoors you are tripling your chances of getting skin cancer. UV rays are strong and dangerous. If you want to be tan before the summer, I highly recommend getting a spray tan, which is completely safe and UV ray free.
• If you are at the beach or in the sun for a long period of time, try to keep covered up when possible. Sunglasses, an umbrella, a hat, and bright colors are simple objects to help block the sun.
• Every month examine your skin for any new marks or changes in moles. Once a year it is important to get a checkup with your physician to receive a full check.

Clearly, there are many ways to reduce your risk for skin cancer. I know it is easy to get caught up in the summer sun and forget these tips, however it will be rewarding in the future when you are not diagnosed with skin cancer. ?Have fun in the sun and keep safe!

For more information on skin cancer head to the?Skin Cancer Prevention Website

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