Did you know that skin cancer is the leading cause of new cases of cancer in the United States?  According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1 million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year, totaling more than cancers of the lung, breast, colon, prostate, uterus, ovaries, and pancreas combined.

Consider these facts:

  • More than 20 people die each day from skin cancer.
  • One in 4 people under 40 will develop skin cancer.
  • Melanoma kills more young women than any other form of cancer.
  • Skin cancer is the #1 cancer in men over age 50.
  • One in 5 Americans and one in 3 Caucasians will develop skin cancer in course of a lifetime. Exposure to tanning beds before age 35 increases melanoma risk by 70%.

To ensure you’re safe while enjoying being outdoors in the summer, follow these sun-safe tips:

  • Apply sunscreen daily, at least a half hour before going outside in the sun.
  • Wear a minimum of 30 SPF, full spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
  • Apply enough to cover your body parts which will be exposed to the sun; approximately 2 tablespoons for the average size adult.
  • Wear a hat with at least a three-inch brim.
  • Protect your eyes with 100% UV sunglasses.
  • Try to avoid the sun during peak hours:  11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Source: American Cancer Society

Author:  Jennifer Even, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences/EFNEP, Ohio State University Extension.

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