Slip! Slop! Slap! and, Wrap! May Is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

The month of May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.  And, Melanoma cases are growing at an alarming rate.  We all should be aware of the dangers of too much sun without protection.

While talking to The Skin Revitalizing Center and The Dermatology Offices of Jack A. Dekkinga M.D. and Gina C. Ang, M.D., I learned how much damage the sun and tanning beds do to our skin on a daily basis, so for them raising awareness of melanoma, the most common form of cancer for adults 25-29 years old, is a year-round calling.

Let me give you some facts you probably didn't know.

• Melanoma kills more young women below the age of 29 that any other form of cancer and is second to only to breast cancer in women up to the age of 39.
• Melanoma rates among teens and people in their early 20’s are increasing at what some dermatologist are calling epidemic rates.
• There is no cure for melanoma. Prevention is the only way to beat this disease.

So, it's time to Slip! Slop! Slap!...and Wrap when outdoors – slip on a shirt, slop on broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, slap on a wide-brimmed hat, and wrap on sunglasses.

Let's be safe this summer, and all year long.  Please protect yourself, and your kids!