Prevention of Skin cancer
Skin cancer is considered one of the most common forms of cancer, accounting for about 50% of all cancers. It is associated with lifelong exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which is why most skin cancers appear after the age of 50. It's actually more common than you might think, with one in five Americans developing it during their lifetime. It is the leading cancer in the United States, affecting two million people each year.
According to recent reports, 40 to 50 percent of US citizens who survive to age 65 will develop skin cancer at one time or another. High-risk groups include farm owners, laborers, sailors, campers, athletes, individuals undergoing military training, beachgoers, and picnickers. Research shows that extreme sunburn during childhood maximizes the likelihood of developing skin cancer later in life.
The most effective method of preventing the development of skin cancer will be to protect the skin by avoiding afternoon sun exposure, using sunscreen while in the sun, and also avoiding tanning beds. But in addition to early diagnosis, you can and really should try everything in your power to protect yourself from skin cancer so that it doesn't happen in the first place.
Top ten ways to protect yourself from UV rays
1. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Make sure it's waterproof and reapply every 2 hours, especially immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
2. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside to allow your skin to absorb it.
3. Be generous with your sunscreen. One ounce of sunscreen should cover the face, neck, legs, and arms of an average adult.
4. Wear protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, pants and long-sleeved shirts
5. Seek shade whenever possible, especially between 10am and 4pm when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
6. Avoid tanning beds because ultraviolet light can cause skin cancer and wrinkles. Use self-tanner, but also use sunscreen with it.
7. Protect young children by reapplying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 frequently, letting them play in the shade and wearing protective clothing.
8. Babies under 6 months should never be in direct sunlight and should always wear a hat and clothing that protects them from ultraviolet rays.
9. Adults should perform regular self-examination. It is a good way to detect abnormalities
10. Consult your dermatologist and get a full body scan once a year.

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