MENTOR, Ohio – May 2, 2022 – Skin Cancer Awareness Month is an initiative of the nonprofit Skin Cancer Foundation, which for more than 40 years has been helping people understand the importance of skin cancer prevention, early detection and prompt, effective treatment. As a member of the Foundation’s Corporate Council, Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions is proud to encourage people to be proactive about daily sun protection and the early detection and treatment of skin cancer.

With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is America’s most common cancer. More people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms.

Ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) from the sun causes skin cancer. UV rays also damage your eyes and cause your skin to lose elasticity, sag, stretch, bruise more easily, and age prematurely. Most of us are aware of the primary ways to protect ourselves from the sun:

• Avoid prolonged exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• If you are outside, cover up with sun-protective clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

• Don’t get sunburned.

• Avoid tanning and never use UV tanning beds.

• Liberally apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.

• Keep infants out of the sun for the first six months rather than using sunscreen on their sensitive skin. Clothing should cover babies’ vulnerable arms and legs, and don’t forget to use hats, sunglasses, and stroller shades.

• Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.

• See a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam.

Source: Skin Cancer Foundation

Here is one more measure, recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, that many people are not aware of: Have UV-protective window film applied to windows in your car (and in your home, if appropriate).

“On average people spend at least an hour every day inside their cars with only the car windows between their skin and the sun’s damaging rays,” said Debra Levy, president of the Auto Glass Safety Council. “Car windshields are treated at the factory to shield drivers from most UVA rays, and some sunroofs may provide protection, but the side and back windows often aren’t treated.

“Whenever you are in a car or any kind of vehicle in the daytime, you are being bombarded on your left side if you are the driver and on your right side if you’re the passenger. Window film can provide much-needed protection,” she said.