As we head into summer, it’s important to remind ourselves about sun safety and detecting skin cancer early. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, causes the most deaths out of all types of skin cancer, the CDC warns. It occurs when the cells that give skin its color begin growing out of control, the American Cancer Society explains. And while melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancers, it’s more dangerous. If melanoma isn’t detected and treated early, it’s more likely to spread to other areas of the body.
Excess exposure to sunlight and other forms of UV radiation is a risk factor for skin cancers, including melanoma. In the United States, the hours between 10 am and 4 pm are the most hazardous for UV exposure. Along with excess UV exposure, the following seven characteristics put you at a greater risk for skin cancer:
The American Cancer Society recommends staying in the shade, wearing clothing that covers your arms and legs, using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection, and avoiding tanning beds and sun lamps.
When detected early, skin cancer, including melanoma, is curable. Talk to your primary care physician to see what tests might be appropriate for you to prevent or treat skin cancer. For more information, Sharp Health News created this infographic on the ABCDEs of how to check yourself for potential signs of melanoma.
The key to staying healthy is prevention. That’s why we promote National Health Observances every month to help spread awareness and keep our members healthy. Learn more men’s health and six early signs of childhood autism.
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