Posted by LeeAnne Genc on 5/29/2013 to
We all know about the damaging effects of the sun, but did you know that in the U.S., someone is diagnosed with melanoma every 8 minutes? The incidence of melanoma has more than tripled over the past three decades, and is the fastest growing cancer around the world. Here are a few more "Wise Facts" about melanoma that you may not know:
- One in every 50 Americans will develop melanoma in their lifetime.
- Melanoma accounts for only 4% of cases of skin cancer - but an astounding 80% of deaths from skin cancer are melanoma related.
- Most melanomas arise in the skin, but they can also occur in other parts of the body, including the eye, soles of the feet and hands, nails, inside the nose or mouth, and even in the central nervous system.
- Catching melanoma early is the key to beating it. If detected in the very early stage, melanoma can be cured with surgery more than 90% of the time. On the other hand, patients with Stage IV melanoma have a median life expectancy of less than one year.
The prevention of melanoma and other skin cancer begins with a good sunscreen. SunX Sunscreen provides professional skin protection featuring SPF 30, UVA/UVB, aloe vera gel and vitamin E in a non-greasy, PABA free formula. It also has a cedar fragrance to discourage insect bites and comes in a 4 oz Bottle or Individual Towelettes.
With summer just around the corner, have you stocked up on all of your summer school or camp supplies? School Nurse Supply carries all of your supply needs, including first aid cream, insect repellant and itch relief spray. Also, make sure that you have plenty of cold packs, either instant or reusable, to help you beat the heat. SNS wishes you all a safe and fun-filled summer!