At Aslan Health, we’re passionate about keeping our community informed and healthy — body, mind, and spirit. That’s why we’re highlighting Sun Safety and Skin Cancer Awareness Month this July. Summer brings fun in the sun, but it also brings increased risk for skin damage and skin cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Each year, millions of people are diagnosed — often from sun exposure that could have been prevented. The most dangerous form, melanoma, can be deadly if not detected early, but most skin cancers are highly treatable when found early.
What Increases Your Risk?
The American Cancer Society outlines several risk factors for skin cancer:
- Too much exposure to UV rays from sunlight or tanning beds
- Fair skin, light-colored eyes, or a tendency to sunburn
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- Having many or unusual moles
How to Stay Safe in the Sun
Sun protection is your best defense. Simple steps can reduce your risk:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher — reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Cover up with long sleeves, pants, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Avoid tanning beds — they increase your risk of all skin cancers.
- Do regular skin self-checks — and see a healthcare provider for any changing moles or new growths.
What to Do If You Notice a Skin Concern
Aslan Health encourages everyone to stay proactive about their skin health. While the Minnesota SAGE program helps cover screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer, it does not cover skin cancer screenings. However, Aslan Health offers affordable self-pay visits starting at $75, and we’re here to help you evaluate concerning spots or moles.
If you notice a mole or spot that:
- Is growing or changing
- Has irregular borders or multiple colors
- Itches or bleeds
— it’s time to get it checked out.
You can also test your sun safety knowledge by taking the Skin Cancer Quiz from the American Cancer Society.
Aslan Health — Caring for Our Neighbors
Don’t let the sun catch you off guard. Walk in or book an appointment online at aslanclinic.com. Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or just need a quick check-up, we’re here — offering compassionate, Christ-centered care to the St. Cloud community.