Friday is ‘Don’t Fry Day’
Friday has been designated “Don’t’ Fry Day” by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention — a day for all of us who live out here on a tropical island to remember that skin cancer caused by exposure to the sun is a daily threat.
Working with the council, the American Cancer Society wants this special day to raise awareness of the prevalence of the disease.
According to National Council’s website, skin cancer is preventable, but it is increasing in the United States. The press release this year on “Don’t Fry Day” says the American Cancer Society estimates that one person dies every hour in the U.S. from skin cancer.
“This year alone, the American Cancer Society estimates there will be more than 73,870 new cases of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, and more than 2 million new cases of basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers in the U.S.”
The best bet is prevention. Tips to follow to protect yourself:
• Do not burn or tan.
• Seek shade.
• Wear sun-protective clothing.
• Generously apply sunscreen.
• Use extra caution near water, snow and sand.
• Get vitamin D safely.
The council also has a one sentence reminder to avoid skin cancer:
Remember to Slip! Slop! Slap! . . . and Wrap when you’re outdoors — slip on a shirt, slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, slap on a wide-brimmed hat, and use wrap-around sunglasses.
Follow these rules and don’t fry Friday — or any other day.
* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.