Skin Cancer: Be Smart About The Sun

Skin cancer (which includes melanoma) is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five children will grow up to get skin cancer. Childhood sunburn is not only painful, but can lead to serious health problems later in life, including skin cancer. "Don't Fry Day," Friday, May 22, is a day to begin life-long sun-protection habits.

"We are targeting children with our sun-protection messages this year," said Jolene Carver of the Iowa Dept. of Public Health (IDPH) cancer control program. "We want kids and their parents to remember to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap - slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat and wrap on sunglasses whenever they go outdoors."

Several schools across the state have received sun shade structure grants from IDPH to provide shelter from the sun's rays during recess and outdoor school activities. These schools include:

* Sidney Community School District - Elementary School
* Mt. Ayr Community Schools - Ringgold County Child Care
* Keokuk Community School District - George Washington School
* Northeast Community School District - Goose Lake
* Mormon Trail Community School - Humeston
* North Mahaska Early Childhood Education Center - New Sharon
* St. Ansgar Community Schools
* St. Mary's School - Storm Lake

Early detection of melanoma can save your life. Carefully examine all of your skin once a month. A new or changing skin lesion in an adult should be evaluated by a health care professional.