Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are the main cause of skin cancer.

The good news is that skin cancer can be prevented! Communities, health professionals, and families can use this month to raise awareness about skin cancer prevention – both at home and in the larger community.

Make a difference and spread the word about strategies for preventing skin cancer:

• Use sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays, SPF 30 or higher, and is water resistant.

• Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.

• The FDA mandates that Sunscreens retain their original strength for at least three years. If the expiration date has passed, throw out the sunscreen.

• Check your skin once a month for changes.

Remember: Even on cloudy days, you are exposed to up to 80 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays.

For more information, go to:  http://healthfinder.gov/nho/PDFs/JulyNHOtoolkit.pdf