Nassau County - Long Island, New York

May 1, 2013

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From the Desk of Legislator Vincent T. Muscarella

MAY IS "MELANOMA AWARENESS MONTH"

I’d like to remind all readers that May is “Melanoma Awareness Month” in Nassau County.  Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and causes the most deaths of any skin disease. As the season heats up, May is known as “Melanoma Awareness Month” to help us prepare for the sun-drenched summer months. 

There are precautions that one can take to help avoid developing Melanoma.  Sunscreen should be worn daily all year round, and not just when going to the beach.   Hats, sunglasses and protective clothing are important when being exposed to damaging UV Rays.  We tend to forget that even the cloudiest day can have high levels of dangerous UV rays.  Also, avoid tanning beds.  A recent study indicates tanning bed use by those under 30 increases their risk of melanoma by 75%.  Melanoma is the most common cancer for 15 to 29-year-olds.

Skin cancer and Melanoma is the fastest growing cancer in America but can be prevented or cured through early diagnosis.Preventing skin cancer is the best way to beat it.  If skin cancer is recognized and treated early, it is nearly 100 percent curable.  So, be smart, get a head start, and get checked out today.  I urge all residents to get regular check-ups, and if you see anything unusual, visit your doctor immediately.