Summer is right around the corner, and for many of us that means spending more time in the sun.
While sunshine has some benefits, such as boosting your mood and being a source of vitamin D, over time your sun exposure can add up and lead to skin cancer.
In fact, Iowa has one of the highest rates of melanoma — the most serious form of skin cancer — in the U.S. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent skin cancer:
- Stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear sunglasses and hats as well as lightweight long sleeves and long pants when in the sun.
- Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours.
- Never use indoor tanning machines.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that adults see a dermatologist for a full-body skin exam once a year. Between exams, keep an eye out for potential signs of skin cancer, including:
- Sores that don’t heal or keep returning
- A mole that changes in color or size
- A painful lesion that itches or burns
- A small lesion with an irregular border and portions that appear red, pink, white, blue or blue-black
- A pearly or waxy bump
- A firm, red nodule
Let your primary care provider or dermatologist know right away if you notice any of these signs.
Finally, there are some common misconceptions when it comes to sun exposure that you should be aware of. There is no such thing as a “healthy tan.” Tans are evidence of DNA damage to the skin, and tanning can increase your risk of skin cancer.
Also, sunburns, even light pink ones that don’t look serious, can greatly increase your risk. Having five or more sunburns throughout your life more than doubles your risk of developing melanoma.
Practice sun safety this summer to protect yourself and your loved ones from skin cancer.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
