Protecting your Skin from the Summer Sun
Nearly one million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year. In addition, an estimated 8,000 people are expected to die from one of the most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma. In many cases early detection is the key to successful treatment. The disease, if found early, is usually treatable.
“You don’t have to hide from the sun to be safe,” says Patrick Feehan, MD, of Dermatology Associates of Lancaster. “But, we do encourage people to be ‘sun safe’ when they are outside.” He reminds people to “slip, slap and slop” before going out in the sun for an extended period of time. “Slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, and slop on some sunscreen,” Dr. Feehan recommends.
Wearing a total block sunscreen is the best way to protect skin from the sun’s rays, and should be “applied liberally and frequently.” Dr. Feehan recommends using sunblock rated at 30 SPF or greater and one that protects from both UVA and UVB rays.
Unusual spots and skin changes, such as persistent red patches and areas that itch or bleed, can signal a problem. Skin cancer screenings can catch a problem early. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.People at higher risk for developing skin cancer should schedule annual visits with a dermatologist.
High risk individuals may have:
• more than 100 moles on their body
• an atypical mole identified by a doctor
• a family history of skin cancer
• frequent sunburns, and
• anyone over age 55.
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