As summer begins and outdoor activities become more common, doctors are reminding residents to protect against the sun.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in America with five million new cases every year.
But what can you do to help prevent or lower your chances of skin cancer?
Dr. Chad Hendrickson is a dermatologist from Independence Health System and he says it’s best to avoid the sun midday when UV rays are the strongest. But if that can’t be avoided there are some other steps that can be taken.
“When you do go outside, it’s important to cover up sensitive areas as much as you can. Wear a hat, and a wider-brim hat when possible to cast shade on your head and neck,” Hendrickson said.
“You should also sunscreen on areas that are exposed, and in particular using broad-protection sunscreen that protects from UVA and UVB rays.”
Dr. Hendrickson says that early detection can be extremely important so he says to check for irregular marks on your body once a month.
