News Release
More than five million cases of skin cancer are estimated to be diagnosed each year in the United States, making it the most-commonly diagnosed cancer in the country. For Skin Cancer Awareness Month this May, the American Cancer Society (ACS) is shining a light on the fact that nearly all skin cancers can be treated effectively – if they are found early.
While about eight out of 10 new skin cancer cases are basal cell cancers, in Ohio, there will be an estimated 4,290 new cases of melanoma in 2024.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are the most common cause of skin cancer, and simply staying in the shade is one of the best ways to limit your UV exposure. If you are going to be in the sun, ACS recommends that you seek shade and “Slip! Slop! Slap!® and Wrap,” a reminder of some key steps that can help protect against UV rays:
• Slip on a shirt. While all clothing provides some UV protection, some clothes are made specially to help block UV
rays.
• Slop on sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 on exposed areas of skin year-round. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating, even if it’s labeled as “waterproof.”
• Slap on a hat. Opting for a hat on a sunny day can help shade your face from the sun. A hat with a wide brim around your head can also help protect your ears and neck.
• Wrap on sunglasses. Sunglasses that block UV rays can help protect the eyes and the skin around them.
Anyone can get skin cancer. Though people with light skin are more likely to get skin cancer, those who are darker-skinned are also at risk of developing skin cancer. The best way to catch skin cancer early is to get into the routine of checking your skin for changes, including a new growth or spot, or a change in the size, shape or color of a mole.
ACS recommends testing your sun safety IQ by visiting their website to take the Sun Safety Quiz.
