Though breast cancer has always been the topic of my posts, I could not ignore something that has been on my mind quite a bit lately. It’s that time, and I am providing some vital information for everyone. Here is something I had printed a while ago, and felt lke sharing here …
Spring has sprung, the flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining brightly! Before you know it we will be deep into the summer months. Do you know the steps to take to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays? You are just like most Americans if your answer is no.
May is Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, and what better time to learn than right before the summer fun begins. Over 1 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the United States making Skin cancer the most common of all cancer types. Skin cancer is diagnosed more than prostate, breast, lung, colon, uterus, ovaries, and pancreas cancers combined.
By protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, you are preventing a large majority of skin cancers. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of invisible energy given off by the sun. Prevention is not as simple as applying sunscreen only when going to your neighborhood pool, or to the beach for the day. You must protect yourself whenever you are going to be exposed to sun. The sun is not the only culprit – tanning beds also create harmful UV exposure. Tanning beds produce UVA and frequently UVB rays as well. Both of which can cause serious long-term skin damage
Here are some important facts to remember:
· It is best to avoid the intense sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. if you are able to do so. Remember, if your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are the strongest.
· The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends applying sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before going outside. ACS also suggests being generous in the amount you use, and selecting a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
· Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.
· Wear a hat! Baseball caps can protect the front and top of the head, but not the back of the neck or the ears. A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around is ideal, as well as one that is UV protective.
· Keep covered. The US has many companies now that make sun-protective clothing. Tightly-woven clothing that covers the most skin is what you should choose.
· Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
Understanding you can be exposed to harmful rays while gardening, walking around a park, or riding in your vehicle is also critical. It is important to keep yourself protected on an ongoing basis. As a result, many cosmetic companies are adding SPF protection to their line of daily cosmetics. Skincare products are even available for men that provide moisture and protection on a daily basis.
Prevention is always the key to protecting your health and well-being. You can still enjoy all there is to enjoy outdoors now that you know more about protecting yourself from harmful UV exposure.
Be smart. Be Healthy!
Skin cancer can be found early, and both doctors and patients play important roles in finding skin cancer. In addition to keeping your sun protection habits up-to-date, dermatologists recommend doing a skin check monthly. You can go to www.cancer.org to learn more information on detecting skin cancer.
