May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.
Get the facts about skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide.
- 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.
- Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.
- When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99 percent.
- Only 20 to 30 percent of melanomas are found in existing moles, while 70 to 80 percent arise on apparently normal skin.
- On average, a person’s risk for melanoma doubles if they have had more than five sunburns.
- One study found that regular daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen reduces the risk of developing melanoma by 50 percent, when used as directed.
Do you know how you can reduce your risk of skin cancer?
- Limit your time in the sun
- Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and re-apply every 2 hours
- Do not use indoor tanning booths and avoid tanning
For more information visit: https://www.skincancer.org/