Picture this: You’re lying out by the pool enjoying the beautiful weather, a cold drink and the company of some friends. And because you’re a pretty good multitasker, you have no problem tapping into the conversation about the cute boys as well as listen to music…but you could be doing a third thing if you’re not careful – neglecting your skin’s health.
If you’re looking for a bedtime story, this is when I’d advise you to leave.
With the summer season fast approaching, there’s an uncomfortable topic I need to discuss with you. I know, I know, it’s like that awkward sex talk you get when you’re thirteen that you never want to hear again. I promise to make this as fast and painless as possible for you. If you hang in there with me, maybe you could save someone’s life.
According to SkinCancer.org:
1. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million skin cancers in over two million people are diagnosed annually.
-That’s more than 800 students at UCF alone.
2. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.
-That’s 60 people in your lecture hall auditorium.
3. Nearly 800,000 Americans are living with a history of melanoma, and 13 million are living with a history of nonmelanoma skin cancer, typically diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma.
-Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer if not detected early in its course.
4. Melanoma accounts for less than five percent of skin cancer cases, but it causes more than 75 percent of skin cancer deaths.
Okay now that that’s over, what can we do about it?
-Seek the shade
-SPF 15 and up! Go with 30 when in extended exposure.
-Avoid tanning beds.
-Look for both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection in your sunscreen.
-Perform a monthly self-examination of skin
-Once a year visit your dermatologist to have a professional skin check-up.
Picture this: You’re relaxing at the beach on a vacation with your family. You love the cool breeze coming in from the shore – but now you are the proud parent of the two beautiful children that are having a great time playing in the sand. Without your knowledge of skin protection, you may have never made it this far…unfortunately the fate of so many others.
Here is my challenge to you, share this article on your Facebook or Twitter. By sharing this message, we can help save lives. With skin cancer, knowing is preventing. Get people in the know and maybe you could save their life.