A North Dakota Wake-Up Call About Sun Safety

May 27 is National Sunscreen Day, a reminder of how important it is to protect your skin year round. Sunscreen reduces cancer, wrinkles, and age spots.  

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

An estimated 5 million people receive a skin cancer diagnosis each year. The most dangerous type, melanoma, spreads to other regions of the body and can be deadly.  

North Dakotans at Higher Risk

North Dakota has a skin cancer rate that is HIGHER than the national average. After our long winters, we try to cram a whole year’s worth of sunshine into a few short months, which can lead to serious skin damage. 

Don't Forget While Driving

Did you know that skin cancers are more common on the left side of the body? That's because of UV exposure though the driver's side window. So, it's important to apply sunscreen before you hit the road.

Sunburns Aren't Cute, They're Dangerous

Posting sunburn selfies might seem funny, but I cringe each time I see one because burns are sign of serious harm. 

A Personal Reminder

My friend Robbie has had multiple melanoma spots removed from her face and goes back for testing every six months. Seeing what she's been through really drives home the importance of sunscreen and wide brimmed hats for me. Skin protection isn't just a summer thing, it's a life saving habit.

Know Your A, B, C, D and E's

Keep an eye out for:

Asymmetry – The halves do not match.
Borders – Uneven, scalloped or notched.
Color – Variety of colors including brown, tan, black, red and/or blue.
Diameter – Usually larger than the size of the eraser on your pencil (1/4 inch).
Evolving – Look for changes in size, shape, color, elevation or symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting. 

Talk to your doctor or dermatologist with any concerns. Check out the North Dakota Cancer Coalition for a variety of sun safety advice and resources.