Buzz, Body, & Bites
A newsletter for actively aging adults Virginia Cooperative Extension Family & Consumer Sciences May 2025 Newsletter
Be Sun Safe This Summer by ScreenNJ, written with MS Copilot assistance
Buzz
As the most common cancer in the United States, skin cancer affects people of all skin tones. By taking steps to protect your skin, you can lower your risk of getting skin cancer. What is Skin Cancer? Skin cancer happens when damaged cells keep growing after they are supposed to die. The main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common, while melanoma causes the most deaths. Melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body, making early detection crucial. (CDC, 2022). Risk Factors A risk factor is anything that raises your risk for a certain disease or condition. These risk factors raise your risk for skin cancer:
Light skin tones: People with lighter skin that burns easily are at a higher risk. History of skin cancer: If you or a family member had skin cancer. Reduced immune system: People with a lower immune system due to age or illness. Excess Sun: Too much time exposed to (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. (CDC, 2022).
Be Sun Safe Follow these easy steps to be sun safe:
Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply generously 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Protective clothing: Wear long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses. Seek shade: Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest. Avoid tanning beds: They have UV rays that can damage the skin (CDC, 2022). Early Detection Early detection of skin cancer improves treatment outcomes. Regular skin self-exams are vital. Use a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror to check all areas of your skin, including under nails, on the soles of your feet, and behind your ears. Look for changes in moles or spots using the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry: One half does not match the other. Border: Edges are irregular or jagged. Color: Varies from one area to another Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser). Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color (American Cancer Society, 2019). Key Points You can prevent skin cancer by understanding the risks, practicing sun-safe habits, and doing monthly self-exams. These steps can lower your risk and help detect cancer early. Always talk to your doctor if you notice any changes in your skin. To learn more about skin cancer, visit the American Cancer Society and CDC websites.
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender ex- pression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.
31
OCI May 2025
Powered by FlippingBook