Wellness Monday’s: Practical Tips to Prevent Skin Cancer

Welcome to our “Wellness Monday’s – where we will share insights on the pursuit of continued growth and balance to live an internal and external healthier and happier life. Today we are talking skin cancer prevention because May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. UV radiation can also come from tanning booths or sunlamps. The most dangerous kind of skin cancer is called melanoma.  Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.

According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, these are some tips to help prevent skin cancer:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Do not burn.
• Avoid tanning and UV tanning beds.
• Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• 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 (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
• Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
• Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
• See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.

We hope you use this month to raise awareness about skin cancer and help people take action to prevent or detect it, both at home and in the community.