It’s the season to #GetNaked

Well, now that I have your attention, #GetNaked is the Melanoma Research Foundation’s campaign to increase melanoma (skin cancer) awareness and share the life-saving importance of early detection. Keep in mind that 90 percent of melanomas are considered to be preventable. 

So let’s look at ways to practice effective melanoma prevention:

• Learn to identify and diagnose melanoma as early as possible. That’s where the getting naked comes in
• Reduce and limit ultraviolet (UV) exposure from natural sunlight and artificial sources (tanning beds)
• Schedule a yearly skin exam by a dermatologist
• Do a monthly skin self-examination; research has shown that individuals, not doctors, are most likely to spot a melanoma
• Generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin approximately 15 minutes before sun exposure-then reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating
• Wear protective clothing whenever possible like a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, long-sleeved pants and shirts
• Seek shade when possible
• Do not get sunburned!
• Avoid intentional tanning and indoor tanning beds
• Get plenty of Vitamin D, through a healthy diet and/or vitamin supplements if recommended by your doctor

For more information, visit the Melanoma Research Foundation’s comprehensive site, at: http://www.melanoma.org/understand-melanoma/diagnosing-melanoma/detection-screening/abcdes-melanoma