Community Encouraged to Practice Sun Safety and Schedule Skin Checks

TUCSON — If you live in Arizona, you almost certainly know the dangers the sun poses to your skin. May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and Carondelet Health Network is encouraging you to take proactive steps to protect your skin and prioritize early detection of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and melanoma is considered its deadliest type. Early detection and prevention are critical in reducing risks and improving outcomes for anyone, especially those of us who live in desert climates like Arizona

“Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or skin tone,” said Dawn Maxwell, FNP-C, Family Medicine, Primary Care NP, Abrazo Health. “The good news is that many cases are preventable through proper sun protection and regular skin examinations.”

According to the American Cancer Society, millions of Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year. Risk factors include prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, a history of sunburns, fair skin, and/or family history.

During Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Abrazo Health encourages the following sun safety tips:

• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours while outdoors
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Seek shade during peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Avoid indoor tanning beds
• Perform regular self-examinations and schedule annual skin checks with a healthcare provider

Experts also encourage individuals to watch for changes in moles or spots on the skin using the “ABCDE” warning signs of melanoma:

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Color variation
• Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
• Evolving size, shape, or color

“Be vigilant about knowing your own skin and body but make sure you see a health care provider yearly who can check your entire body, back side included, for anything that might look or be abnormal, especially if you live in Arizona,” said Maxwell.