May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US with over 5 million cases diagnosed each year. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. UV radiation can also come from tanning booths or sunlamps but the main cause for Skin Cancer is usually direct sun exposure.
Fortunately, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer and can almost always be cured when it’s found and treated early. By raising awareness of the dangers of unprotected exposure and encouraging sun-safe habits, we can save lives.
A few ways you can make a difference:
- Educate your families, children, and friends about the dangers of UV radiation and encourage them to wear sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher.
- Connect with a Skin Cancer foundation online. Join in the conversation or share some helpful tips for your family and friends.
- Keep newborns and children out of the sun, especially during the most dangerous hours between 10am-4pm. Try to find shade or protected shaded areas for them to play.
- See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam.
- See a Thermographer to get a Thermal Imaging treatment. Thermography is a great tool and can provide early detection.
Thermography is a non-invasive and painless test, with no radiation involved. It can detect and monitor early warning signs of skin cancer. This type of cancer screening records temperature changes on the surface of the skin allowing small changes to be detected. Since skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US you can never be too safe. Schedule a thermography session today!
This May, spread the word about Skin Cancer Awareness. We can use this month to raise awareness and help people take action to prevent or detect it.