Fun in the Sun

Skin cancer ages are getting younger while rates are increasing. Dermatologists are saying that the patients they are treating for skin cancer are getting younger by the year; the startled fact is alarming many about the dangers of too much fun in the sun. The medical community is also worried about the fact that nearly 30% of the American population admits to regularly not using sunscreen while outdoors. An article in the St. Lois Post Dispatch said, "The American Society of Dermatologic Surgeons reports that melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is the second most common cancer in women ages 20 to 29 and is increasing among all people under 30. The doctors say the cause is people spending too much time in the sun without taking precautions, as well as the use of tanning beds." Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers nationwide; however it is one of the most preventable if you take care of your skin properly. This involves reapplication of sunscreen on a daily basis, especially when outdoors, avoiding tanning beds, limiting direct sun to your face by wearing a hat and avoiding getting sun burned. Younger demographics getting skin cancer more commonly is concerning because it means the children and parents aren't following sun-safety precautions.