July is UV Awareness Month

UV radiation is the root cause of most skin cancers, making it crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays year-round. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends practicing safe sun habits, and here are three essential steps to follow:

1. Seek shade when appropriate: Especially during the midday hours when the sun's rays are strongest.

2. Wear sun-protective clothing: Long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses can help shield your skin from UV exposure.

3. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher: This is essential for effective protection.

If you plan to be outside for more than 15 minutes, applying sunscreen is vital to prevent damage from the sun’s harmful UV rays. We are human and may forget to apply or reapply sunscreen, so integrating it into your daily routine is crucial.

Factors Increasing Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Several factors can heighten your risk of developing skin cancer over your lifetime:

- History of sunburns: Especially if they caused blisters.

- Tanning bed use: This significantly increases your risk.

- Prolonged sun exposure without sunscreen: Unprotected exposure raises your chances of skin damage.

- Fair skin, blue or green eyes, red or blonde hair: These features are linked with a higher risk.

- Frequent sunburns: Regularly experiencing sunburns increases susceptibility.

-Immunosuppression medications: Drugs like biologics and chemotherapy can elevate your risk.

- Advancing age: The risk of skin cancer increases as you age.

Importance of Regular Skin Exams

Yearly full-body skin exams are vital for early detection and treatment of skin cancers. Catching these cancers early can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Make UV protection a daily habit to safeguard your skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Stay safe and enjoy the summer responsibly!