<span>SALT LAKE CITY – It’s National Skin Cancer Awareness Month in Utah and around the nation, a public awareness campaign that aims to put the spotlight on early detection and prevention. </span>

<span>”The American Cancer Society is using the month of May as an opportunity to remind people and inform them that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States,” says Shane Ferraro, media relations manager at the American Cancer Society of Utah. </span>

<span>”More than three and a half million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually in the United States, which is more than all other cancers combined. So, it’s a pretty staggering statistic.”</span>

<span>Ferraro says it’s projected that this year more than 700 Utahns will be diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. </span>

<span>And nationally, he says, 76,000 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma this year, and about 10,000 will die from it.</span>

<span>Ferraro adds that there are several ways to help block the sun’s potentially dangerous effect.</span>

<span>”Generous use of SPF 30 or higher sunscreen,” he explains. “That’s a great way to protect yourself. Also, you seek the shade when you can. </span>

<span>”Use umbrellas or other shade structures when you’re outdoors. Wear protective clothing: long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV blocking sunglasses.”</span>

<span>Ferraro also recommends self-examination at least once per month for any freckles or moles that may be changing in color or size.</span>