Preventing Melanoma

"Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US. In 2011, there were more than 65,000 cases of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body and causes over 9,000 deaths every year. People who die of melanoma lose an average of 20 years of life expectancy. Melanoma can be caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sun or sources such as indoor tanning. Without additional prevention efforts, melanoma will continue to increase in the next 15 years. Communities and policy makers play a major role in these skin cancer prevention efforts.

Communities and policymakers can:

• Increase shade at playgrounds, public pools, and other public spaces.
• Promote sun protection in recreation areas, including the use or purchase of hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• Encourage employers, childcare centers, schools, and colleges to educate employees and students about sun safety and skin protection.
• Restrict the availability and use of indoor tanning by minors...:

Melanoma