Follow These Simple Tips by a Cuban-American Expert to Keep Skin Cancer at Bay

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells. With skin cancer rates on the rise, here are some simple tips for staying safe in the sun.

Accounting for 4% of skin cancers, melanoma is responsible for 79% of skin cancer deaths and people are typically diagnosed with it between the ages of 45 and 55. 25% of the cases occur in individuals younger than 40 years and melanoma is the leading cause of cancer death in women aged 25 to 30 years.

Manuel Alvarez, a Cuban-American OB-GYN, shared the following tips to help prevent the disease-

1. Take cover while out in sun as one only needs about 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure to make vitamin D. One should never be unprotected during the middle of the day, from about 10 am until 4 pm. Research shows a simple white T-shirt is not enough.

2. Choose the right SPF as not all sunscreens offer protection against UVA and UVB rays.

3. An annual skin check with dermatologist should be scheduled, no matter how old you are.

4. Get your fill of antioxidants via a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Source: ANI