Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. The most common risk factor for developing skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV exposure damages skin and can damage the genes in our skin thus causing uncontrolled growth. Frequent sunburns (especially in childhood) have been linked to skin cancers such as melanoma, one of the most deadly skin cancers.
For this reason the focus on skin cancer is often one of prevention specifically by limiting UV exposure. Below are some of the most common recommendations:
- Limit UV exposure
- Seek shade, especially during daytime hours
- Wear protective clothing that covers arms and legs
- Wear a hat
- Wear sunglasses
- Use sunscreen (Broad Spectrum; 15+ SPF)
- Avoid tanning salons
UV exposure occurs at all times of the year… not just in summer, and can still damage skin on cloudy and hazy days… all day. Also note that UV rays reflect off surfaces such as water, cement and snow.
Be sure to know how to apply your sunscreen…
- Apply 1/2 hour before you go in the sun.
- Reapply every 2 hours – more often if wet or sweating.
- Be sure to put plenty of sunscreen on. You need at least a one ounce amount to cover your entire body… the size of a golf ball or shot glass.
- Use broad spectrum … ideally 30-50 SPF.
Projects…
School Projects
The Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health has worked with schools in both Atlantic and Cape May County in the past. We are looking to revitalize relationships with schools once schools return from COVID-19 and permit activities once again. The coalition can partner with schools to provide a variety of activities to educate both students and parents on sun safety. Some ideas include: workshops and activities; poster contests; take home flyers and handouts; health class guest speakers; school policy changes; etc. If you are interested in the Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health working with your school please feel free to contact us at any time. More to come on this project… hopefully in the fall of 2020.
Educational Workshops
In addition to working with the school systems to reach the community on skin cancer prevention we also want to reach out to general populations in both counties. This next year we plan to provide at least two educational workshops in each county (Atlantic and Cape May County) on sun safety. If you would like us to come to your organization please reach out to schedule a date and time. Currently, due to COVID-19 presentations cannot be performed, but we are scheduling for future dates. In the meantime we are also working on putting together presentations that can be completed virtually. More to come on virtual workshops. Check back for dates and times in the events calendar.
Social Media
Sun safety or skin cancer prevention is one of those topics that most of us know something about, but we can get a bit lazy about performing the good habits needed to protect our skin. So… we need reminding from time to time. In May, June, and July 2020 there are/will be “news” articles specific to skin cancer. May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness month so May was the perfect time to kick this off.
In addition we want to make good information available all the time. Therefore you will find video links below that will take you to some great educational information regarding skin topics. The longest one is about five minutes so they are all short with good information. Also be sure to check out information on our “Resource” page, specifically skin cancer.
Preventing melanoma through education – the Enright Melanoma Foundation
Basal Cell Carcinoma: Know Your Skin
Despicable Me 2 Sun Safety Campaign 1
A Sunscreen Message for Consumers
References:
Educational Resources. Enright Melanoma Foundation.
Skin Cancer. American Cancer Society
Skin Cancer. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Skin Cancer Videos. American Cancer Society.
Sunscreen and Sun Protection Videos. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Date Updated: 5/28/20