How Can I Prevent Melanoma?

Using sunscreen can help prevent melanoma.

Melanoma is a cancer that most often starts in a mole located in a sun-exposed part of the skin. Much less often, melanoma can start in other organs or in other tissues, such as the inside of the mouth.

Melanoma can be one of the most preventable types of cancer. The key action to take is to protect yourself from the sun. To do that, take these steps.

• Stay out of the sun, especially between 10AM and 3PM.

• Use sunscreen with at least 15 SPF (sun protection factor).

• Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going in the sun.

• Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes or more often if you’re in water.

• Wear clothing that protects you from the sun.

• Wear sunglasses.

• Avoid tanning beds.

• Get yourself checked regularly by a doctor.

But even if you can’t avoid it, you can take steps to try to catch it in the earlier stages, when it is easier to treat. That’s why it’s important to know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of melanoma.