According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the US. [1]
Sadly, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention indicates that more than 3.5 million people will develop skin cancer this year. [2]
But the good news is, you can reduce your skin cancer risk significantly by doing the following:
- Wear Sunscreen: In our May Newsletter, we talk a lot about the reasons you should wear sunscreen, including what to look for in terms of UV protection. Read the full article: Why You Should Wear Sunscreen.
- Cover Up: Wear a hat and sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses. Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts when you’re sitting in the sun. Or even hide under an umbrella. The goal here is to enjoy the outdoors while limiting your skin exposure to the sun’s harmful rays.
- Get Checked: Schedule an appointment with your dermatologist here at Horizon Family Medical Group for a professional skin examination every year. We’re also offering free skin cancer screenings during the summer months. (For schedules and locations, visit our Facebook page for details.) We’ll help determine if you have any signs or symptoms of skin cancer, and how best to treat it. Plus, we’re here to answer any questions you might have. [3]
The old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure really holds true when preventing skin cancer. Have fun outdoors this summer, but stay safe. And if you notice a new freckle or mole, make an appointment with our dermatologists today.
Sources:
- Is Your Skin Looking Good in 2016: https://www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer/programs/skin-cancer-awareness-month
- Skin Cancer in America: The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, http://www.skincancerprevention.org/
- Skin Cancer Awareness Month Tips from the Skin Cancer Foundation: http://www.skincancer.org/media-and-press/press-release-2015/skin-cancer-awareness