May is Melanoma Awareness Month

Melanoma causes most skin cancer-related deaths.  Protect yourself and your family by conducting a self skin exam to check for changes in moles and other blemishes on the skin.  Detection is the best way to catch skin cancer early and getting prompt treatment.

In addition, the American Association of Dermatologists recommends that everyone follow these sun protection guidelines:

• Avoid outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are the strongest; 
• Seek shade whenever possible; 
• Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher; 
• Wear sun-protective clothing and accessories, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses; and 
• Follow the "Shadow Rule" -- if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun's damaging rays are at their strongest and you are likely to burn.