May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Recent data has shown that New England has the highest concentration of melanoma cases.  Adults and children should follow these important measures in the prevention of skin cancer:

• Apply a sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” (one that protects against both Ultraviolet A and Ultraviolet B rays) with a minimum SPF of 30 at least 30 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen may be applied to children older than six months. Look for products that have 10 percent micronized Zinc Oxide such as Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Baby SPF 30+ or Solbar Shield SPF 40.
• Covering up the skin with clothing is one of the most effective ways of protecting the skin. Sun hats with wide brims and flaps to shade ears and neck, lightweight long sleeved shirts, sun rompers, cover-ups and swim bodysuits provide good coverage. Clothing brands such as Coolibar offer 50+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing. Other protective brands may be found online or at retailer REI.
• Sunglasses help protect the delicate eye area. Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, including eyelids. Because sunscreen cannot be applied on or around the eyes, it's important to shield the eye area from UV rays. For young children, opt for rubber or flexible frames and shatterproof lenses. To ensure that lenses provide UVA/UVB protection, look for the statement “100% UVA/UVB protection” label on the lense when making a purchase.
• Seek shade. Shady areas not only offer some cool relief on a hot summer day, but some protection from UV rays.
• Limit overall exposure to UVA/UVB rays. Sunscreen should be worn year-round on exposed skin.  
• Avoid tanning booths and tanning beds completely.
• Have your skin checked by a dermatologist regularly.
• Note any moles or other spots on the skin that have changed. Have them checked by a physician as soon as possible.

Sun safe habits should be learned at a very young age. It cannot be stressed enough that one of the key ways to minimize melanoma mortality is to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, starting in early childhood.

South Shore Skin Center will hold a free Skin Cancer Screening Evening on Thursday, May 16, 2013 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at One Scobee Circle, Unit 3 in Plymouth. 

This skin cancer screening evening will be held in conjunction with SkinCeuticals and is supported by the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Cancer Society. It is open to the public. Appointments are limited and can be made by calling 508-503-8531.