Sutter Health Helps Fights Skin Cancer "Epidemic" on Melanoma Monday

Consistency is Key in Preventing the Disease and Protecting Your Health

SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 2, 2006 – Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. Diagnoses for skin cancer also far exceed all other cancers combined. In recognition of Melanoma Monday Sutter Health is offering several skin cancer safety tips.

"Today, skin cancer is a very serious health concern. More than one million people in the U.S. get skin cancer every year," says Serena Mraz, M.D., dermatologist for Sutter Solano Medical Center. "Protecting yourself from the sun can save your life."

Skin cancers are divided into non-melanomas and melanomas. Non-melanomas are the most common cancers of the skin, but they rarely spread elsewhere in the body. Melanoma is much less common than non-melanoma skin cancer, but it is far more serious.

You don't have to sunbathe every day to be affected by the sun. Whether you go for a drive or just walk to the mailbox, you're being exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. If you don't protect your skin from the sun, you increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

"Most Americans don't protect themselves as well as they should from UV rays," said Dr. Mraz. "But when followed consistently, sun-protective practices will reduce the risk of skin cancer."

Protect yourself from skin damage:

• Although people with fair skin should be especially careful in the sun, African-Americans and other darker skinned people can get skin cancer, too. In fact, a recent study showed a significant increase in the rate of melanoma among Hispanics in California.
• Check your skin for signs of skin cancer. Talk with your doctor if any moles or birthmarks change in appearance – shape, size or color.
• UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid being in the sun for long periods during this time and apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Take advantage of free skin screenings from Sutter Health affiliates to protect your health.

Watch our Your Health television program in May to learn sunscreen tips. Your Health airs as follows:

• Bay Area on KPIX Channel 5 – Saturday, May 6 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 27 at 5 p.m.
• Sacramento and Central Valleys on KCRA Channel 3 – Sunday, May 7 at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 21 at 11 a.m.

From our health library
Skin cancer and melanoma
Skin cancer prevention
Skin changes

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Media Contact
Karen Garner
Communications Manager
(916) 286-8297
garnerk@sutterhealth.org

Kami Lloyd
(916) 286-6680
lloydk@sutterhealth.org