Don’t Fry This Summer!
Skin cancer has been on the rise over the past few decades. More than all the other cancers combined, 2.2 million people are diagnosed with 3.5 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer in the United States. There are always ways to protect yourself and your
family, don’t fry this summer!
New Skin Cancer Cases in the U.S. This Year:
Skin Cancer (non-melanoma) 3,500,000
–> Compared to…
Prostate Cancer 233,000
Breast Cancer 235,030
Lung Cancer 224,210
Colorectal Cancer 136,830
Most skin cancers are caused by the sun’s UVA and UVB ultraviolet (UV) rays
UVA Rays Cause:
Dark patches, Loose skin, Wrinkles and Premature aging
UVB Rays Cause:
Sunburns and Eye Problems
Both can cause DNA damage, which generally increase skin cancer.
Protecting Yourself Is Vital!
Suncreen – What to Look for:
Broad Spectrum (protects you from both UVA and UVB rays), at least 30 SPF proof, and water resistant (40 minutes of total protection)
SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays. Be generous when applying sunscreen, one ounce (about a palm full) should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck and face. Don’t forget your ears, hands, feet and even underarms. Remember to reapply at least every two hours, more often if you’re in and out of water or sweating. Finally a fact that most don’t know, sunscreen expires! Check the bottle for an experation date and get rid of those bottles you have rolling around for the past couple of years.
Anyone can get skin cancer but there are a select few who are more prone than others, be extra careful if you have…
Natural blonde or red hair
Freckles
Fair skin
Spend a lot of times outdoors
Had skin cancer before
Live in or travel to hot climates or high altitudes
Take medication that makes you sensitive to light
Had a lot of sunburns and burn before tanning
A condition that lowers your immune system
Family history of skin cancer especially melanoma
A lot of moles, large moles or irregular looking moles (see a physican)
Ditch those tanning beds and remember to cover up this summer with an umbrella and sunglasses along with appropriate clothing! Cover up the kiddies too!!