By M. Ali and Leah Owen-Oliner

From PHN Issue 57, Summer 2024

Dear Prison Health News,
Could you please send information about topics such as skin cancers?
—Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,
Thank you for this great topic suggestion, as skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Skin cancer most often occurs due to exposure to sunlight (UV radiation), and it involves an abnormal growth of skin cells. Sunlight is necessary for the production of vitamin D by our bodies. However, too much sun exposure, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV radiation from the sun is the strongest, can cause sunburns and be harmful long term (even if you don’t get sunburned). Skin cancer affects
people of all skin tones, including those with darker complexions, so it’s important to lower your risk by limiting direct sun exposure, using sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) when possible, and checking your skin regularly for changes. Catching skin cancer early gives you the best chance for successful treatment. While there are a few different types of skin cancer, here are the three
major ones: