GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and with the summer months fast approaching, it’s time to protect yourself from the sun.
North Carolina ranks 17th in melanoma cases, the most common type of cancer. Dermatologists say there are many ways to prevent skin cancer, and it’s important to know the risks.
“There’s a lot of risk factors with skin cancers, particularly genetics plays a huge role in this. So, you know, family history with skin cancer, you definitely need to be careful, lighter skin types, lighter hair color, blue-green eyes, those are all risk factors that can be a part of this,” said Dr. Cameron Nichols, an ECU Health dermatologist.
Nichols added that you can also protect yourself from the sun by checking the UV index, avoiding the sun at peak times and using proper sun protection like sunscreen and hats.
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