Experts Warn Rising Skin Cancer Risk Across US, SC Ahead Summer

As summer begins, health officials and dermatologists across the U.S. emphasize the importance of sun protection to reduce the risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer nationwide. Experts recommend daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours or after sweating, and wearing protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses. Skin cancer, including basal and squamous cell carcinomas and the deadliest form, melanoma, can affect people of all ages and skin tones, with melanoma capable of spreading rapidly to vital organs. Reports from South Carolina highlight over 1,600 melanoma diagnoses in 2023 alone, and medical professionals warn that even brief sun exposure without protection can cause lasting damage and increase melanoma risk later in life. Consumers are also cautioned by a UK consumer group about some popular sunscreens failing to meet protection standards, underscoring the need to choose effective products carefully. Overall, experts stress that sun safety should be a year-round practice, not just a summer precaution, to maintain skin health and prevent cancer.