Tips to Help Prevent Melanoma This Summer

“Melanoma can be deadly, but the chances of survival are quite high if it’s caught early. Follow these tips, become an expert on your own skin and get checked regularly by a doctor.” Dr. David W. Tannenbaum, Family Physician-in-Chief at Mount Sinai Hospital

Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family from skin cancers like melanoma:

Avoid UV radiation as much as possible:
Avoid the peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or be sure to wear sunscreen and protective clothing including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Tanning beds emit harmful radiation and should always be avoided.

Know the trouble spots:
For men, the most common spot for melanoma is the upper back. For women, the upper back and lower legs are most often affected. Slather sunscreen on those important areas!

Wear sunscreen year-round with the right UV protection:
Sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher is recommended, with protection from both UVA and UVB radiation. Apply it to lips and ears and under clothing too!

Protect children:
Limit your child’s exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours. Prolonged sun exposure in the first 18 years of life can increase the chances of melanoma.

Know what to look for:
You know your skin, so watch for moles, brown spots or growths that show the ABCDEs of melanoma: A=asymmetry (irregular shape), B=border (notched edges), C=colour (very dark), D=diameter (enlarging), E=evolution (change in appearance over time). Report any concerns to your doctor.