By Izzy Aparicio

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, making it one of the most common types of cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun often damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to the development of skin cancer.

It manifests in various types, with basal cells being the most common, followed by squamous cells and melanoma being the most aggressive. New invasive melanoma cases have risen 32% in the recent decade according to the American Cancer Society.

  1. Although skin cancer is common, there are ways to minimize the likelihood of developing it. Here are three key preventative strategies:
    Wear sunscreen. Apply a layer of sunscreen of SPF 30+ and re-apply every two hours, or after engaging in activities outside. Sunscreen reduces UV rays and helps reduce skin aging.
  2. Cover up. Hats, sunglasses, long sleeves, and tightly woven, loose-fitting clothes will provide sun protection to the body. This is one of the best ways to prevent sunburns.
  3. Avoid tanning at all costs. Tanning exposes the skin to intense UV damage which increases skin cell damage. This is associated with an increased risk of melanoma.

Let us take care of our skin. Skin cancer can affect anyone, but adopting these measures will help prevent skin cancer and deter skin aging. These simple tasks will prevent much harm.

Find out more about skin cancer:

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I am an intern for the Cleveland Observer. I am a current Film and Media Arts student at Cleveland State University. I love to read and watch movies in my free time.