Skin Cancer - Things You Should Know

Your skin is the largest organ on your body. It not only comes in contact with the rest of the world but acts a protectant to keep out harmful microbes - without it, we would get infections. In addition, your skin is full of nerve endings that help you feel sensations such as hot, cold and pain.

Quick Facts From The Surgeon General Skin cancer is a serious public health concern. Every year, there are more than 63.000 new case of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, resulting in nearly 9,000 deaths. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the US, with five million people treated each year. Treatment for skin cancer costs 8.1 billion each year in the US. Anyone can can get skin cancer. Although those of a lighter hue are at higher risk, people with darker hue, may often be diagnosed at a later stage, making it more difficult to treat.

Most skin cancers in general can be prevented - but we aren't doing enough. More than 1 out o f3 Americans report sunburn each year. Sunburn is a clear sign of overexposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays, a major cause of skin cancer. More than 400,000, cases of skin cancer, about 6000, of which are melanomas, are estimated to be related to the indoor tanning in the U.S. each year.

Tanned skin is damaged skin, yet nearly 1 out of every 3 young Caucasian women, engage in indoor tanning each year.

Solutions: Choose sun protection strategies that work.

Wear hats, sunglasses, protective clothing and seek shade, especially during midday hours. Use broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15+ to protect any exposed skin. Remember that sunscreen is most effective when used in combination with other methods and when reapplied as directed. People from every sector of society have a role to play to reverse the rising the tide of skin cancer. Government, business, health, education, community, nonprofit and faith-based sectors are all essential partners in this effort.