COLUMBIA, Md. — May 18, 2026 — MedStar Health is encouraging everyone to use sunscreen for better health as we kick off the summer and celebrate National Safe Sun Week. This awareness campaign, started in 2021, reminds families of the importance of protecting their skin from harmful UV rays.
A recent national survey by MedStar Health highlights the need for better sun safety practices. Here are some surprising findings:
- Nearly 50% of adults have never had a skin check.
- Over half are unaware that melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer.
- A staggering 83% of adults don’t realize that melanoma can turn life-threatening in about six weeks.
- Only 11% regularly apply sunscreen.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Dr. Allison Larson, a dermatologist at MedStar Health, emphasizes, “Knowing your risk helps in preventing skin cancer. Using sunscreen and remembering to reapply it is vital for long-term health.”
Here are some tips for using sunscreen effectively this summer:
- Apply sunscreen daily and reapply every two hours.
- Keep sunscreen handy in bags or lunchboxes to remind you to use it.
- Tie sunscreen application to another daily habit like brushing your teeth.
- Don’t forget spots like your ears, neck, and hands.
- Replace your sunscreen every year, as it can lose effectiveness over time.
The survey also asked about summer concerns. Respondents cited sunburn, heat illness, and bug bites as their top worries. Despite this, only 19% of adults could name all signs of heat illness.
Prevention Tips for Heat Illness:
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Seek shade or cool places during high temperatures.
- Wear lightweight clothing when it’s hot.
- Watch for signs of heat illness, such as dark-colored urine.
This year’s National Safe Sun Week runs from May 18 to May 24. Staying sun-safe is essential, as health experts remind us annually to protect our skin.
For more detailed prevention strategies, check out MedStar Health’s blog on summer safety tips.
Let’s enjoy a fun and safe summer this year!
Source link
MedStar Health,Health Care & Hospitals,Household, Consumer & Cosmetics ,Surveys, Polls and Research
