Summer invites us outdoors, but increased sun exposure heightens risks from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays without proper protection. Did you know over 70,000 new skin cancer cases are diagnosed annually? As one of the most common cancers, early detection is key.
Protect yourself starting today:
Perform regular self-checks: The KWF advises monthly self-exams in front of a mirror, spotting new, unusual, or changing skin areas and consulting your doctor promptly. Complement this with an annual professional skin exam by a dermatologist to catch suspicious moles, growths, or changes—even on sun-exposed areas like your scalp, neck, and back.
Know the ABCDEs of skin cancer:
Annual exams focus on these warning signs: Asymmetry (one half differs from the other); Border (irregular edges); Color (varied shades like brown, black, white, red, or blue); Diameter (over 6mm, pencil eraser size, though smaller possible); Evolving (changes in size, shape, or color).
Apply sunscreen daily: Use broad-spectrum, water-resistant formulas with SPF 30+ generously on all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, or after sweating/swimming.
Wear protective clothing: Pair sunscreen with UV-blocking long-sleeve shirts, pants, wide-brim hats, and sunglasses—especially near reflective surfaces like sand, water, or snow. Seek shade between 12-3 PM when UV rays peak.
Skip tanning beds: They contribute to countless cases yearly. Opt for safe sunless tanners or sprays for a glow without UV damage.
