This Article (Prevent Skin Cancer) is from one of our Screened, Expert Authors.

Prevent Skin Cancer

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Skin cancer is on the rise. While skin cancers usually affect Caucasians, outside workers, smoker,s and those with a family history of skin cancer, everyone is at risk. Statistics demonstrate that the cases of skin cancer have doubled every decade over the past forty years, and we need to take action how to prevent skin cancer from affecting us.

There are two types of skin cancer that are very lethal if left too late. Therefore, it is crucial to follow these skin cancer prevention tips. The following information is sourced in part from the world's largest healthcare organization, NHS Direct Online.

Taking care in the sun is the best way to protect your skin from developing cancer. First and foremost, do not allow your skin to burn. The damage is done as soon as the skin becomes burned, so cover up with sunscreen and loose fitting clothing.

Make sure to cover your legs and arms if at all possible as well. Heat stroke can be prevented if you wear loose fitting clothes and drink lots and lots of water to replace what you lose.

Tightly woven fabrics will provide the best protection from the sun. It's also important to avoid exposure to direct sunlight during the afternoon hours. The sun is at its strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you must go outside during these times, be sure to cover up with clothes, wear a hat and sunglasses, and apply plenty of sunscreen.

You should always use a sun protection lotion with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Children, people who live in constant exposure to the hot sun and fair-skinned people should choose a lotion with an SPF of up to 40.

Your entire body should be covered by your sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. While it's always necessary to cover your exposed areas including the face, neck, feet and hands, don't forget the other areas that may be exposed. Remember, the most vulnerable parts of your body are those that are not normally touched by the sun.

You also should apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out in the sun and then apply it every couple of hours, as sweat and friction against towels for example will cause it to wear off. Also reapply right after swimming, even if your lotion says it is of a waterproof variety.

Don't believe those who tell you that the water will protect you from sunburn. Always use waterproof sun protection when you are out swimming. UVA and UVB rays will penetrate through two feet of water. Similarly, clouds and fog do not prevent ultraviolet rays from reaching and damaging your skin. The ozone layer is meant to protect us, but we've damaged it to the point that we now need to protect ourselves.

Even on cloudy days, it's important to cover up with SPF 15, put on a hat and wear sunglasses that have UVA and UVB filters. The sun's rays can damage the retinas of the eyes and ultimately create cataracts, so it's important to protect yourself today to avoid future disease and discomfort.