2. What is skin cancer?What is skin cancer?  “The uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells.” (Skin Cancer Foundation)  Occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells trigger mutations.

3. Skin Cancer StatisticsSkin Cancer Statistics  Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer.  One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of their lifetime.  Every hour (about 62 minutes), someone dies of skin cancer in the United States.  A person’s risk for melanoma doubles if he or she has had more than five sunburns at any age.

4. Types of Skin CancerTypes of Skin Cancer  Basal Cell Carcinoma: Most common skin cancer.  Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Second most common skin cancer.  Melanoma: Most deadly form of skin cancer.

5. Risk Factors of Skin CancerRisk Factors of Skin Cancer  Lighter natural skin tone  Family history of skin cancer  Exposure to sun  History of sunburns early in life  History of indoor tanning  Skin that burns or freckles easily  Blue/Green eyes

6. Warning Signs of Skin Cancer  ABCDE’s of Melanoma  A = Asymmetry  B = Border  C = Color  D = Diameter  E = Evolving

7. Prevention  The hours between 10:00 A.M. and 4 P.M. are most crucial to protect skin.  Wear clothing that protects skin.  Wear sunglasses that block 100% UVA and UVB.  Use sunscreen with at least 15 SPF.  Avoid indoor tanning.

8. How Sunscreen WorksHow Sunscreen Works  Sun protection products work by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering sunlight.  Sunscreen contains chemicals that interact with the skin to protect it from UV rays.  Sunscreen needs to be re-applicated every two hours, depending on how much you perspire.

9. Activity

10. What To Include In Your Letter…  Risks they are taking.  How they are damaging their body.  What could they do to improve their health?  What could happen if they don’t make these changes?