May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month! - Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH)
May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month devoted to raising awareness. As temperatures rise, more people spend time outdoors, whether for work or leisure. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, with over 6 million diagnoses made annually. However, it's also one of the most preventable types of cancer.
Know these facts about skin cancer:
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
- More than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.
- People of all colors and ages get skin cancer
- When detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
- One can protect skin is by reducing sun exposure.
Steps to prevent Skin Cancer:
- Seek the shade to avoid too much sun
- Wear Sunscreen at least sun protection factor (SPF) 30
- Wear sun-protective clothing with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50+
- Avoid Tanning beds
- Check your skin for any changes to be aware
Resources:
Take Steps to Prevent Skin CancerReducing Risk for Skin Cancer
Sun Safety Facts
Sunlight and Cancer
https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/skin-cancer