Your Skin, the Summer Sun & Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin cancer is the most common diagnosed cancer in the United States. Melanoma, which is responsible for 75% of all skin cancer deaths, is the 5th most commonly diagnosed cancer in Colorado. And, Colorado’s annual rate of new melanoma diagnoses was 15% higher than the national average from 2002-2006. About 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime, and it is estimated that about 117 people in Colorado die of melanoma each year.

Prevention is key when it comes to skin cancer! An ounce of prevention, such as avoiding unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and early detection, goes a long way in decreasing the potential of developing skin cancer. Below is a list of the most effective skin cancer prevention action steps:

• Do Not Burn: Overexposure to the sun is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer;

• Avoid Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds: UV light from tanning beds and the sun causes skin cancer and wrinkling; 

• Use Sunscreen: Always remember to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Reapply at least every two hours and after swimming and sweating; 

• Cover Up: Wear protective clothing when out in the sun, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses (with 99-100% UVA/UVB protection); 

• Stay in the Shade: Retreat to the shade when the sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; and, 

• Watch for the UV Index: Plan outdoor activities around the index to prevent overexposure to the sun. 

Do You Know the 4 D’s of West Nile Virus Prevention?

The best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from mosquito bites, is to follow the four D’s: Drain, Dusk/Dawn, Dress, DEET.

DRAIN: Drain or empty standing water around your home and neighborhood, since that is where mosquitoes lay their eggs

DUSK/DAWN: Take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing during evening and early morning (dusk and dawn) or consider avoiding outdoor activities during these times when mosquitoes are most active

DRESS: Dress in long sleeves and pants during dusk and dawn or in areas where mosquitoes are active. Wearing light-colored clothing may also help prevent being bitten.

DEET, Picariden or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus: Wear insect repellant containing either DEET, Picariden or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

•  Follow label instructions
•  Apply repellants to exposed skin and/or clothing.
• Never use repellants over cuts, wounds or irritated skin
•  If using DEET, choose the concentration that best fits the amount of time spent outside. 25 percent DEET lasts up to 5 hours, 5 percent lasts 45-90 minutes. Use a concentration of 30 percent or less for children.
• DEET should not be used on children less than 6 months of age. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children less than 3 years of age.