Sun Safety & Skin Cancer Prevention in Hot Weather
May is Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness month. As the sun gets stronger, it's a great time to refresh our knowledge and learn about ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most common type of cancer in the US: 1 in 5 Americans will develop it by the age of 70. Luckily, it can be prevented or caught early in many cases. Here are some ways to limit dangerous sun exposure and recognize melanomas:
- The sun is strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During those hours, either avoid exposure or wear a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating
- Regularly check your skin for any moles or freckles that are changing size, shape, or color.
- Talk to a dermatologist or other doctor if you have any concerns