June 15, 2023
Do you remember when a glowing tan used to be proof of a summer well spent? Today, our understanding and approach to sun exposure is very different.
More than five million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in this country every year, making it America’s most common cancer. It is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer and can be successfully treated if caught early. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
Common but preventable
The CDC recommends the following to protect your skin from the harmful UV radiation that causes most skin cancers:
- Stay in the shade
- Wear sun-protective clothing
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Sunscreens wear off—reapply at least every 2 hours (check out the Skin Cancer Foundation tips for choosing and using sunscreen
- Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps
Protect yourself and your loved ones by taking precautions and visiting a doctor or dermatologist regularly.
Take action
As the weather gets warmer and the sun comes out, it’s a good time to raise awareness for skin cancer and encourage your employees to consider safe sun practices. Check out the vast library of ready-to-share employee communications available on B’link–you’ll find information on preventing skin cancer in the preventive care category.