Skin cancer is the most common type of 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.
The good news? Skin cancer can almost always be cured when it’s found and treated early — even melanoma. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to prevent skin cancer or detect it early.
May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. Take action now and throughout the year to prevent skin cancer and reduce the risk of UV damage. Here are some simple steps you can take today to protect your skin:
• Stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Put on sunscreen every two hours and after you swim or sweat.
• Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.
• Check your skin regularly for changes.
Want to get a free skin cancer screening? You can sign up to be notified when a free skin cancer screening is available within 50 miles of your zip code. To sign up, visit www.aad.org/scs/Notifications