Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. When cancer starts in the skin, it is called skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. It occurs in more than a million people each year.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. UV damage can also cause wrinkles and blotches or spots on your skin. The most preventable cause of skin cancer is exposure to UV light, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds. The good new is that skin cancer can be prevented, and it can almost always be cured when it’s found early and treated early.

Take Simple Steps Today to Protect Your Skin

• Limit the amount of time you spend in the direct sun; the sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm.
• Use sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and an SPF 30 or higher. Put on sunscreen every 2 hours and after you swim or sweat. Remember to protect your skin even on cool or cloudy days.
• Wear protective clothing including long sleeves; sunglasses; and a hat that shades your face, neck and ears.
• Check your skin once a month for changes.
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Warning Signs of Cancerous Moles:

• Asymmetrical
• Uneven borders
• Variety of colors
• Larger than 1/4 inch
• Change is size, shape, color or elevation

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