Protecting Your Skin

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Because the majority of cases are linked to an overexposure of ultraviolet (UV) rays, from the sun or indoor tanning devices, it is one of the most preventable cancers. The effects of UV radiation damage range from premature aging to melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer that kills close to 10,000 individuals annually.

According to the CDC, New Hampshire ranks 7th highest in the nation for rates of new melanoma diagnoses. Skin cancer rates in the state are a serious public health concern that must be addressed.

The use of indoor tanning devices is particularly dangerous as they produce UVA rays that are more intense than from the sun. UV exposure at a young age is especially damaging and can increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. New Hampshire was the twelfth state to ban the use of indoor tanning by anyone under the age of 18. 

Featured Partner: Semra Aytur, PhD, MPH

Addressing the burden of cancer is a high priority professionally and personally for Semra Aytur, PhD, epidemiologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Health Management and Policy at University of New Hampshire.

“Like so many others, cancer has deeply affected the lives of my family and friends,” she said. “I am honored to serve on the NH Comprehensive Cancer Collaboration’s Board of Directors and as co-leader of the Equity Task Force to give back to the cancer community.”