Some Red Hot Truths
About Skin Cancer

Here are some facts about sun exposure you may not know:

• The deadliest form of skin cancer— melanoma—usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 45.
• Sunscreen does not completely shield out ultraviolet rays. It only diminishes them. In one study, people who wore sunscreen had a higher risk of getting melanoma than those who did not. That’s because they tended to stay in the sun longer.
• Many skin cancers appear in unexpected places. Up to 60 percent of nonmelanoma, squamous cell tumors appear on the head or neck.
• Both sunburns and suntans cause skin damage. Even a few blistering sunburns can increase your risk of melanoma. But it’s your lifetime exposure to the sun that boosts your risk of nonmelanoma skin cancers.
• Most T-shirts have a sun protection factor (SPF) much lower than SPF 15. Clothes must have a tight weave to protect you. You can counter these facts with the following precautions:
• Stay in the shade, particularly at midday.
• If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen with SPF 15 and protective clothing. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Be diligent about regular skin cancer exams—both self-exams and professional screenings.