Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month

Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month – With the sheer amount of sun exposure we get here in Colorado, it’s very important to make sure you are always wearing your sunscreen! And here is why.

Facts & Figures:

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation:

• More than 5.4 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer were treated in over 3.3 million people in the U.S. in 2012, the most recent year new statistics were available.
• More people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined.
• One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70
• Actinic keratosis is the most common pre cancer, affecting more than 58 million Americans.
• The annual cost of treating skin cancers in the U.S. is estimated at $8.1 billion: about $4.8 billion for nonmelanoma skin cancers and $3.3 billion for melanoma.

Tips and Tricks to avoid getting too much sun:

There are so many easy ways you can prevent skin cancer. Whether it’s applying sunscreen regularly, covering your skin and wearing UV protective clothing, or just choosing a shady spot to have your outdoor picnic, it’s easy to limit the amount of sun you get. The following are a few ideas on how you can avoid skin cancer:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Avoid getting a sunburn at all costs.
• 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.

For more information about skin cancer and your sun exposure, talk to your doctor.