Timonium MD
5-23-2025 4:47am

Remember The Sun

Protect your skin: Join the 'Don't Fry Day' campaign to prevent skin cancer this summer

 "Don't Fry Day" is a campaign by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention to raise awareness about skin cancer prevention. The Friday before Memorial Day, this year May 25th, is designated as "Don't Fry Day".

    - It’s a call to action to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent skin cancer, especially as people head outdoors for summer.

    - Why it matters: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with over 5 million cases diagnosed annually.

    - Skin cancer statistics:

    - 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.

    - Melanoma, the deadliest form, causes over 7,000 deaths annually in the U.S.

    - How UV rays harm:

    - UV rays from the sun or tanning beds damage skin cell DNA, leading to mutations that can cause cancer.

    - Even one severe sunburn, especially in childhood, significantly increases skin cancer risk later in life.

    - Beyond cancer:

    - UV exposure causes premature aging (wrinkles, sunspots) and weakens the skin’s immune system.

    - The campaign’s core message:

    - The National Council promotes the “Slip, Slop, Slap, and Wrap” strategy for sun protection.

    - Slip on a long-sleeve shirt or protective clothing (UPF-rated fabrics block UV rays).

    - Slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating.

    - Slap on a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, neck, and ears.

    - Wrap on sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage, which can lead to cataracts.

    - Additional tips:

    - Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest.

    - Avoid tanning beds—they’re just as harmful as natural sunlight.

    - Keep a small bottle of sunscreen in your bag or car for quick reapplication—it’s a game-changer.”

    - What you can do:

    - Commit to one sun-safe habit this summer (e.g., always wearing sunscreen or a hat).

    - Spread the word: Share Don’t Fry Day tips with friends and family.

    - Check your skin regularly for unusual moles or spots and see a dermatologist if concerned.

    - Skin cancer is serious, but prevention is simple. Let’s make sun safety a habit, not just on Don’t Fry Day, but every day.”

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