Spending time outdoors can improve overall health and wellness. It also provides opportunities for physical activity, may promote mental health, stress reduction, and increase vitamin D production. While spending time enjoying the outdoors, people can decrease skin cancer risk from too much UV exposure by using sun protection with SPF 15 or higher. In addition, staying in the shade, and wearing protective clothing, including a wide brimmed hat also help reduce skin cancer risk. Wearing sunglasses helps protect against eye damage.
Skin Cancer Facts
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and includes distinct types.
At least one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
More than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.
Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.
Unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun’s UV rays in as little as 15 minutes.
Even if it is cool and cloudy, you still need protection. UV rays, not the temperature, do the damage.
Anyone can get skin cancer, but some things put you at higher risk.
The most common signs of skin cancer are changes on your skin, such as a new growth, a sore that does not heal, or a change in a mole.
Those that have a higher risk for skin cancer include those with:
A lighter skin color
Freckled skin
Blue or green eyes, and blond or red hair
Certain types and a large number of moles
Family history of skin cancer or a personal history of skin cancer
Older age
Making sun protection an everyday habit will help you to enjoy the outdoors safely and help lower your skin cancer risk.