American Cancer Society Creates Awareness for Skin Cancer Prevention

The American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) reminds us that May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. In fact, more skin cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year than all other cancers combined. The number of skin cancer cases has been going up over the past few decades. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Most of this exposure comes from the sun, but some may come from man-made sources, such as indoor tanning beds and sun lamps. The good news is that you can do a lot to protect yourself and your family from UV rays, as well as to catch skin cancer early so that it can be treated effectively.

Simply staying in the shade is one of the best ways to limit your UV exposure. If you are going to be in the sun, “Slip! Slop! Slap!® and Wrap” is a catchphrase that can help you remember some of the key steps you can take to protect yourself from UV rays—slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, and wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around them.

You don’t need x-rays or blood tests to find skin cancer early, just your eyes and a mirror. If you have skin cancer, finding it early is the best way to make sure it can be treated with success.

The American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) is on a mission to free the world from cancer by providing free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and advocacy groups to create awareness and impact. Get involved by calling (402) 423-4893.