It's Skin Cancer Awareness Month!

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For the third consecutive year the Skin Cancer Foundation and Aveeno are traveling across the country in a 38-ft RV to educate people about the importance of sun protection and skin cancer screenings. Dermatologist, Dr. Jeanine Downie tells us more about the Road to Healthy Skin Tour.

Dr. Jeanine Downie:

We'll be traveling around to 80 different cities across the country in hopes to screen more than 10,000 people. The free, full-body skin checks are offered by local board-certified dermatologists who are voluntering their time. Last year over 3.5 million new cases of skin cancer were diagnosed in the United States, so we're trying to raise awareness and help to prevent and eventually cure these skin cancers, especially if they're caught early. And during our tour last year we diagnosed about 1,200 suspicious moles and had 77 suspected cases of melanoma so that was very significant.

What people can do to decrease their incidences of skin cancer is to wear sun block with at least an SPF of 30. You should wear that every day, rain or shine, all year long and regardless of ethnicity. Aveeno Positively Ageless has a new formula with Enviro-Block, a triple defense anti-oxidant with vitamin E, feverfew and soy that help to protect your skin. It also has UVA and UVB photo-stabilizing technology that blocks those rays from your skin and lasts longer than other sunblocks. And don't forget to reapply every two hours! Plus you should wear broad-rimmed hats and UVA/UVB blocking sunglasses when you're out in the sun.

You should also do at-home screenings. If you see a mole on your arm, your back or your neck that's changing or a pimple that's not healing, bring it to the attention of your local board-certified dermatologist so you can get help. It may be a skin cancer and early detection may help save your life.

For more information go to www.skincancer.org

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