Since my awareness about skin cancer has increased, I've developed some rational concerns about my risks of getting it. I have lots of moles and I didn't always take the best care of myself in the sun when I was in my teens. According to the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation:

Skin cancer is most often the result of damage to the skin from overexposure to UV rays either from the sun or from the use of tanning beds. Though skin cancer is preventable and most often treatable, it remains the most common form of cancer.

There are three types of skin cancer: 1. Basal cell carcinoma: It's the most common type, and also the most easily treated. It's caused by long-term exposure to the sun. 2. Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the second most common type. It's easily treated if found in the early stages, but the cancer can spread to other body parts. 3. Malignant melanoma: This is the most serious form of skin cancer and is the cause of most deaths related to skin cancer. If can be cured if it's detected and removed early. Melanoma start in moles or other growths on the skin. The number one way to prevent skin cancer Protect yourself from the sun. The Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation warns the sunburns, especially in childhood, can cause melanoma and basal cell carcinoma later in life, and one serious sunburn in childhood could double your risk of developing melanoma. Squamous cell carcinoma seems to be related to cumulative exposure to the sun - even on a daily, low-dose basis. That means you don't have to get a sunburn to be at risk. Here are the top skin cancer prevention tips from the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation

• Stay out of the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. or any time the UV Index is 3 or higher.
• Cover arms and legs with loose-fitting, tightly woven and lightweight clothing.
• Wear a wide-brim hat to protect head, face, neck and ears.
• Stay in the shade - under trees, awnings or umbrellas.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection.
• Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher; apply it at least 20 minutes before going into the sun and reapply every 2 or 3 hours.

And remember – these precautions are important all year round when the sun’s rays bounce off the snow, sand, water and even concrete!

Please check out this inspiring, informative and incredibly powerful video from the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, to find out what brave people affected by melanoma would say to their 16-year-old selves. [HTML1] Don't forget to share the link with your friend/family to help spread awareness. The video has gone viral and has been nominated for three Webby Awards. Please click the links below to vote for it in each category. https://cdnl.vg/IyZ2hL - Writing https://cdnl.vg/HN1arO - Copywriting https://cdnl.vg/IRcSQV - Public Service & Activism Do you take care of your skin in the sun?