May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so we’re going to outline some of the most shocking facts about this form of cancer. Skin cancer has been on the rise in recent years, but it’s also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Here are a few facts to keep in mind next time you think it’s okay to not apply sunscreen!
Most Skin Cancer is Caused by Sun Exposure
The sun keeps us warm and helps grow our food, but it can also be dangerous. More than 90% of skin cancer is caused by exposure to UV rays. Whether this is from being outdoors or visiting a tanning booth, UV rays can be harmful. That’s why it’s so important to wear sunscreen all year round, even in the winter!
A Person Dies from Skin Cancer Every Hour
Many people make the mistake of thinking skin cancer isn’t as serious as other forms of cancer but they’re wrong. Skin cancer can be prevented easily, which makes the high numbers of death from it even sadder.
Skin Cancer is the Most Common Cancer
Skin cancer accounts for more than 50% of all cancers combined. This number is larger and scary, but often patients just have to get the cancerous spot removed. Although people don’t have to undergo chemo or radiation typically, that doesn’t mean it’s not a serious illness. It’s crazy to think skin cancer is the most diagnosed type of cancer in men and women considering it’s so preventable.
Skin Cancer is Most Deadly For People of Color
Caucasians have a higher risk of developing skin cancer, which isn’t surprising considering their pale complexion. People of color such as Asians, African Americans, and Latinos have a low risk. However, skin cancer is the most deadly in these racial groups.
Childhood Exposure Increases Risk
Who didn’t run away as a kid before their parents could lather them up with sunscreen? Unfortunately, one bad sunburn as a child can increase the risk of melanoma as an adult, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Make sure you protect children against UV exposure as this can really impact their skin health in adulthood.
Men are More at Risk
Men are twice as likely as women to develop skin cancer. In fact, skin cancer is more common than prostate cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer in men over 50. This means skin cancer is the most common type in men older than 50. So make sure the men in your life are protecting their skin from UV rays!
Make sure to protect your skin from sun damage and skin cancer by always wearing SPF! This month we’re also offering a special promotion to treat, repair, and prevent sun damage! Contact us to get this awesome deal or to book an appointment today!
