Summer and sunshine go hand-in-hand. But all that carefree summer fun means more exposure to the sun's UV rays. Sun exposure has been linked with melanoma and skin cancer. May is National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month and it's a perfect time to raise awareness among your employees.
Exposing skin to the sun’s ultraviolet rays causes damage. The effects of the sun can lead to wrinkles, sunspots, eye problems, and various forms of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 2 million people are diagnosed each year, making it the most common type of cancer in the United States. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
So what can worksite wellness programs do to build awareness about skin cancer prevention and detection? Here are a few tips:
Sun Protection Policy
If your employees work outdoors, protection from the sun is a major safety concern. Create a policy that outlines what equipment is available to protect outdoor workers and reduce the amount of time workers spend in the sun. See a sample policy.
Sunscreen Giveaways
Sunscreen is a great gift for fun runs, health fairs and wellness events. It's an inexpensive way to spread the word and protect employees from sun exposure.
Education
Create a campaign around "Sun Smart" tips. Provide resources and materials like how to choose the right sunscreen and sunglasses. Also encourage skin self checks - monthly head-to-toe skin exams can help identify any unusual changes or new growths on the skin. Today there are even smartphone apps that help keep track of monthly skin checks. Check out this free one from the Mollie Biggane Melanoma Foundation.
DermaView Facial Screenings
The skin screening uses a non-harmful ultra-violet light to determine the sensitivity, dryness and conditions of an individual's facial skin. Sun and other pollutants can have a negative impact on skin, which could eventually result in skin cancer. This test is completely safe and allows the employee to actually see first hand the damaging effects the sun has on their skin. TotalWellness health professionals come on-site to companies and administer these screenings. This is the perfect tool to make employees aware of sun damage and even demonstrates the effectiveness of sunscreen.
May is the ideal time to remind your employees about sun safety tips. Early detection and prevention is key to reducing the risk of skin cancer. 
