1. 1 in 5 Americans will develop a type of skin cancer during their lifetime.
2. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common forms of skin cancer and if detected early are easily treated and the cure rates are close to 95%.
3. Melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer, and can occur anywhere on the body.
4. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher protects the skin from both UVA & UVB rays and is one of the most effective ways to prevent wrinkling & sun damage.
5. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults age 25-29 years of age; and the 2nd most common cancer in the ages of 15-29.
6. People with more than 50 moles, light-colored skin, freckles, atypical moles, history of sunburns as child or a family history of melanoma are at an increased risk of melanoma.
7. One person dies from melanoma almost every hour in the US.
8. A person has a 1 in 59 chance of developing melanoma in their lifetime.
9. The sun’s rays are the strongest from 10am to 2pm. If your shadow is shorter then you are, seek shade.
10. Hereditary thinning or baldness is the most common cause of extensive hair loss in both men and women.
11. A review of seven studies found a 75% increase in the risk of melanoma in those who had been exposed to indoor tanning.
12. Nearly 70% of tanning salon patrons are Caucasian girls and women, age 16 to 29 years of age.
13. After the age of 6 months, children should have a broad-spectrum sunscreen applied regularly. Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapplied at least every 2 hours (more often, if swimming).
14. Nails often reflect the general state of health. Changes in nails such as discoloration or thickening can signal health problems including the kidneys, liver, heart and lung, and possibly anemia or diabetes.
15. Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is often described as the “itch-that-rashes” and approximately 10-20% of children age 10 and under in the US have developed the condition.
16. Acne is the most common skin condition in the US, and approximately 80% of people age 11 to 30 experience at least minor acne.
17. Acne is caused by a number of factors. Foods, such as chocolate and greasy foods, do not cause acne; but certain foods may make acne worse.
18. Acne is caused by several main factors including: blockage of the hair follicles; production of oil by the skin; the bacteria within the hair follicles; and an inflammatory response in the skin.
19. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of premature aging.
20. Sunscreen is important to protect the skin and avoid premature aging. Use an SPF of 15 or higher for daily protection and an SPF of 30 or higher when going outside for any extended period of time.