“I really believe that my life is to be lived with an attitude of gratitude, that’s how I continue to move forward. I still really love and enjoy being in the sun. I’m just a lot more careful now.”
–Julie A. Varoz, Melanoma Cancer Survivor
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and Utah. Utah’s melanoma cancer incidence is the highest in the nation and continues to rise. It is estimated that 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 65 percent of melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The risk for melanoma is greatly increased by tanning, from either outside UV exposure or by using indoor sunlamps and tanning beds.
Setting | Non-PSE Approach | PSE Approach |
---|---|---|
School | Teach students the importance of wearing sunscreen. | Incorporate sun protection as part of school policies, planning, and development of school facilities. |
Workplace | Encourage employees to avoid prolonged UV exposure. | Provide uniforms and apparel that protect against UV exposure to outdoor employees. |
Community | Organize races or walks to raise awareness of skin cancer. | Incorporate shade planning in land use development, support organizational policies that discourage indoor tanning by adolescents and young adults, or advocate for additional policy restrictions. |
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