A survey of more than 1,000 American adults showed that almost all Americans (96%) believe that sun protection is important, but Americans have experienced solar damage to growing rates since 2020, which is at risk of skin cancer.
The survey showed that 67% of Americans were tanned or darker skin in 2024, compared to 54% in 2020. In addition, 35% burned the sun, compared to 25% in 2020, including almost 50% of generation Z and millennials.
In recognition of the month of awareness of skin cancer (May), the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), encouraging is the public to practice the safe sun to reduce its risk of skin cancer.
Early detection
Alison Houston, 51, mother of two children, echoes the importance of practicing safe solar habits after her own melanoma diagnosis in June 2020. Although the most fatal way of skin cancer, melanoma is highly treatable before being early. Fortunately for Houston, the certified dermatologist of the Sandra Johnson Board, MD, FAAD, CAHT IT IN TIME.
“I have several previously removed moles, but none had been skin cancer. In my annual skin control, my dermatologist noticed a new place that seemed suspicious on the right side of my stomach and was removed and examined to detect signs of melanoma,” says Houston in a statement. “With my skin clear, I learned firsthand how important it is to stay protected, and I encourage others to take the safety of the sun seriously.”
Houston’s Skin Cancer Journey has also impacted his family’s relationship with sun protection.
“While I used sun protection before my diagnosis, I was not as close to being as vigilant as now,” says Houston in a statement. “My husband and my two children join me to use sunscreen daily, and we are sure to never forget the hat and sunscreen to cover any exhibition area not covered with sunscreen.”
Prevention is key
With more than a third of Americans who experience solar burns in 2024, AAD says it is important that never for the prevention of discussion and early detection of skin cancer. This is particularly important for people who put themselves at a higher risk of skin cancer and early aging when tanning indoors or spending prolonged periods of time to the sun, according to the president of AAD, Susan C. Taylor, MD, Faad.
“In 2024, one in six Americans felt it was worth looking good now, even if that means watching later in life, with two thirds of Americans who prefer how their skin looks tan,” says Taylor in a statement. “Many people do not make the steps they take now to protect sun tremors can make a big difference in the future. A future favor and take measures.”
The AAD and Taylor are being that everyone:
- Search shade. The sun’s rays are stronger between 10 am and 2 pm. If your shadow seems to be shorter than you, look for shadow.
- Wear sunscreen, such as a light shirt with long sleeves, pants, a wide -winged hat and sunglasses with UV protection, when possible. For more effective protection, choose clothes with an ultraviolet protection factor on the label.
- Apply a broad spectrum and water resistant sunscreen with a SPF or 30 or higher than all skin not covered by clothes. The broad spectrum sun protector provides protection of UVA and UVB rays.
“Whether it is new in sun protection or does not leave home without the essential, now it is the perfect time to prioritize the health of your skin and develop sun protection habits to last a lifetime,” says Taylor in a statement.
Everyone runs the risk of skin cancer; Around one in five Americans will develop the duration of skin cancer in their life. If you have concerns about a new or suspicious place or have some point that is changing, itching or bleeding, find a certified dermatologist in your area in AAD.org/findaderm.
ID 8348892 © Shane White | Dreamstime.com
Relationship read:
]