Skin Cancer Prevention

As the days get warmer, many of us are heading outside to take a walk or bike ride, do a little yardwork, or simply enjoy the weather. When doing so, remember to practice skin safety.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. In fact, more skin cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year than all other cancers combined. However, when found and treated early, skin cancer can almost always be cured.

CHECK and PROTECT the Skin You’re In

Protecting your skin and checking for early signs of skin cancer are important. The following information and university services can help.

Illustration of three human figures standing in the sun.

Infographic: Check the Skin You're In

Skin cancer is most treatable when caught early. Use this handy infographic to help you remember key areas to look at when doing a skin-check.

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Be Safe in the Sun

Learn about some of the damaging effects that too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure can have on the skin. You'll also find tips to help you protect yourself and your family from getting too much sun. From the American Cancer Society.

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Coverage through U-M Health Plans

Recommended skin cancer screenings are covered under all U-M health plans, with no out-of-pocket cost when performed as part of a preventive care visit.

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How to CHECK the Skin You’re In
Know your skin. Be aware of your normal pattern of moles, freckles, and blemishes, and other marks on your skin so that you’ll notice any changes next time.

Do a skin check. A skin self-exam is best done in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. You can use a hand-held mirror to look at areas that are hard to see, such as the backs of your thighs. Use this handy infographic to help you remember key areas to check.

Check regularly. Check your skin, preferably at least once a month. This can help you find many skin cancers early, when they are easier to treat.

Enlist a loved one. A partner or family member may be able to help you with these exams, especially for those hard-to-see areas like your back or scalp.

Be thorough. Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to examine your skin and what to look for from the American Cancer Society.

Coverage through U-M health plans include:

Recommended skin cancer screenings are also covered under all U-M health plans (copays apply). While not recommended for all adults, screenings may be needed if you have had skin cancer in the past, are at high risk of developing skin cancer or have changes to your skin that might be a sign of skin cancer. If you have concerns about your skin, talk to your doctor.
How to PROTECT the Skin You’re In
Seek the shade. Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV light is strongest.

Cover up. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts cover the most skin and are the most protective. Dark colors generally provide more protection than light colors.

Wear a hat and sunglasses. Hats protect areas that are often exposed to intense sun, such as the ears, eyes, forehead, nose, and scalp. UV-blocking sunglasses protect the delicate skin around the eyes, as well as the eyes themselves.

Use sunscreen.

Choose a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.

For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Apply 30 minutes before going outside.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

It’s also important to know that sunscreen is just a filter – it does not block all UV rays.

Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths. Tanning lamps give out UVA and usually UVB rays as well. Tanning bed use has been linked with an increased risk of melanoma; especially if it’s started before a person is 30.

Coverage through U-M health plans include:

FSA coverage – If you are enrolled in a health care flexible spending account, prescription sunglasses and over-the-counter sunscreen products with SPF 15 or higher are considered eligible medical expenses.

Vision plan coverage – The U-M vision plan covers sun tinting of plastic lenses, gradient tints, and glass gray #3 prescription sunglasses.
Additional Resources
Skin cancer awareness information from the Rogel Cancer Center

How to do a skin self-exam (American Cancer Society)

The National Cancer Institute - Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma

Melanoma Prevention from the Rogel Cancer Center

Sun safety and skin cancer prevention from U-M Dermatology

Be safe in the sun quiz from American Cancer Society

Rogel Cancer Center’s Cancer AnswerLine

Infographic: Preventing Skin Cancer

Human Resources University of Michigan

Skin Cancer Prevention

CHECK and PROTECT the Skin You’re In

Infographic: Check the Skin You're In

Be Safe in the Sun

Coverage through U-M Health Plans

Coverage through U-M health plans include:

Coverage through U-M health plans include:

MHealthy

Skin Cancer Prevention

CHECK and PROTECT the Skin You’re In

Infographic: Check the Skin You're In

Be Safe in the Sun

Coverage through U-M Health Plans

Coverage through U-M health plans include:

Coverage through U-M health plans include:

MHealthy

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