Protecting Your Skin: Essential Lifestyle Changes for Cancer Prevention

Understanding Sun Exposure

UV Radiation Types

• UVA rays: Penetrate deep into skin, causing premature aging
• UVB rays: Primary cause of sunburns and skin damage

Key Prevention Strategies

1. Sun Protection

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
• Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating
• Use water-resistant formulations for outdoor activities

2. Protective Clothing

• Wear wide-brimmed hats (3+ inch brim)
• Choose UPF-rated clothing when possible
• Use UV-blocking sunglasses

3. Time Management

• Avoid sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM
• Seek shade during peak UV hours
• Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon

Lifestyle Modifications

Daily Habits

• Perform monthly skin self-examinations
• Schedule annual dermatologist visits
• Stay hydrated to maintain skin health

Environmental Awareness

• Check UV index before outdoor activities
• Be extra cautious around reflective surfaces
• Avoid tanning beds completely

Risk Factors to Monitor

• Family history of skin cancer
• Previous sunburns
• Fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
• Multiple or unusual moles

Early Detection Signs

• Monitor the ABCDE rule for moles
• Report changes in skin appearance
• Document new growths or lesions