Revving up for race season — Fun in the sun means it’s time to talk skin cancer awareness
Brought to you by Regeneron
Race season is in full swing, which means more time spent outdoors at race tracks and ultimately more time in the sun. With increased sun exposure comes a need for responsible UV protection.1
One in five people will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.1 When people hear about skin cancer, they often think of melanoma, yet non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), are two of the most common types of skin cancer in the U.S.2
NMSCs, such as BCC and CSCC, can be easier to treat when caught early,3 but some cases may progress to advanced stages and become serious.4Who Is at Risk?
It is important to understand that anyone -- including people with darker skin or people who spend less time in the sun -- can get skin cancer. However, there are some factors that can increase one’s risk, including5,6:
-- Light/fair skin -- especially people with naturally blonde or red hair.
-- Advanced age -- the older you get, the higher the risks!
-- More time in the sun -- just like wear and tear on the tires, every hour on the track adds up! More sun exposure = more skin cancer risk.
-- Geography -- the sun’s rays are strongest the closer you get to the equator, so people in Southern states have higher skin cancer risk.
Catching Skin Cancer Early: Skin Checks!
Every good driver -- and fan -- needs a good spotter!
Catching skin cancer early -- when it first becomes visible -- makes it easier to to treat.3 Performing regular self-exams can help you with this early detection, and everyone should also have an annual exam performed by a skilled professional, like a dermatologist.
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