By RMHP
Why men have higher incidence of skin cancer
Men are more likely than women to get skin cancer—including melanoma, the most dangerous kind. They are also more likely to die of melanoma than women. Here's why skin cancer strikes men harder.
Men get more sun.
They spend more time outside over their lifetimes than women. Plus, they're more likely to work outdoors.
Men often skip sunscreen.
Only about 14 percent use it on their face and other exposed skin.
Men's skin reacts differently to sun than women's.
It's more likely to be damaged by cancer-causing UV rays.
How men can protect their skin
Slather on sunscreen.
Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 on any exposed skin. Wear sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Repeat.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Cover up.
For the best protection outside, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and a wide-brimmed hat. If you wear baseball caps, don't forget sunscreen on your ears and neck.
Seek shade.
Head for it as much as possible in peak sun times—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Speak up.
If you work outdoors, ask about on-the-job sun protection.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
