The Pacific Northwest has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the country. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with over one million people diagnosed each year. Even though it is so common, you may not know how it can affect your life and what you can do to reduce your risks.
- One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime
- One person dies of melanoma every hour
- One-in-50 Americans has a lifetime risk of developing melanoma.
- Melanoma is the least common but the most deadly skin cancer, accounting for only about 4% of all cases but 79% of skin cancer deaths.
- Over the past 3 decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined
Ways to Reduce Your Chance of Getting Skin Cancer
- Avoid tanning booths
- Do not let your skin burn. If your skin is red, your skin is burning!
- Seek shade, especially between the hours of 10am and 4pm, when the sun is the strongest
- Apply 1oz of sunblock to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside
- Reapply sunblock every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating
- Cover your skin with clothing
- Keep your babies out of the sun. Children are especially sensitive to UV radiation. Sunscreen can be used on children older than 6 months.
- Use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher EVERYDAY.
- Last but not least, remember to examine your skin every month- Head to Toe!