SKIN CANCER FACTS
-Most common of all cancers
-Usually sun-related
-2004 estimates-55,100 new cases of Melanoma and 7,910 deaths
-To identify signs of melanoma use the ABCD Rule
-A is for ASYMMETRY (half of mole does not match the other)
-B is for BORDER (irregular, blurred)
-C is for COLOR (not the same all over, different shades)
-D is for DIAMETER (> 6 millimeters or growing)
-Check skin monthly, because skin cancer is preventable and curable in early stages

PREVENTION

SUNSCREEN
-Use sunscreen (even on cloudy days) and lots of it!! Don't forget to apply to nose and ears.
-Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 15 or higher is best. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection from sunburn, caused mostly by UVB rays (>60 not much benefit). Some sunscreens, called "broad-spectrum," reflect both UVA and UVB rays. Newer broad-spectrum sunscreens contain products to block UVA rays. All sunscreens block UVB rays.
-Apply 15-20 minutes before sun exposure (to allow it to soak into skin)
-Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating (also with waterproof sunscreen)
-Talk to your pharmacist for more information about specific sunscreens

PHYSICAL BARRIERS
-Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10am and 4pm (sun is strongest during this time)
-Take breaks from the sun-seek shade
-Wear appropriate clothing if out in the sun for long periods of time
-Wear sunglasses and a hat
-Avoid tanning beds-they are just as dangerous as the sun
-Remember to use sunscreen along with these physical barriers to prevent burns and skin cancer
FYI
-Some prescription medications that cause skin to be more sensitive to the sun:
Antibiotics *Accutane
Birth control *Retin-A
Diuretics

*CAUTION-Sunscreen may not prevent sunburn-avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear appropriate clothing-Talk to your pharmacist for more information*

Websites to check out:
www.cancer.org
www.cancer.gov
www.aad.org
-Have questions…email us/call us/visit us!!