SAFE IN THE SUN How Your Skin Changes as You Age and How to Protect It
Skin cancers are some of the most treatable and preventable forms of cancer in the U.S. Yet many Americans don’t fully understand the scope, prevention, and symptoms. As you enjoy another summer, consider these skin-safety tips specifically designed for aging populations. Age Matters If you think you’ve reached the “worthless” point when it comes to protecting your skin from cancers or damage, then think again. As we age, our body begins to show normal signs of wear, and our skin is no different. Skin becomes much more fragile as we age, and as a result, many older adults are at risk of developing skin cancers. Aging spots, discoloration, and moles may be normal, but as the skin thins, its ability to protect itself from the sun’s rays or cuts and scrapes becomes much more difficult. That’s what makes proper skincare in aging populations so important. It’s Not Too Late Our skin changes rapidly, and what you do to protect it or damage it today could impact your future. Protecting it now could be vital to preventing new cancers or precancerous spots, which could cause dangerous health complications and costly treatments. You can protect your skin by applying sunscreen daily, covering up, regularly
washing your face, applying moisturizer, wearing sunglasses, and eating a balanced diet, just to name a fewmeasures. Your skin may have damage or standard signs of wear, but that does not mean it isn’t worth protecting, regardless of your age. Know the Signs Part of properly protecting your skin as you age is understanding what you need to monitor. Typically, skin cancers or precancerous spots appear like moles or discoloration on our skin. Knowing the ABCDE symptom rules can help you determine if skin spots are harmless or concerning. If you notice any of the following traits on a mole or skin spot, then consult with a medical professional immediately. A: Asymmetry B: Border irregularity C: Color that is not consistent D: Diameter greater than a pencil eraser E: Evolving shape, size, or color (For example, the spot is growing.)
To learn more about the complexities of skin wellness and aging, visit SkinCancer.org.
THE BEST GRILLED SUMMER VEGETABLES
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INGREDIENTS
• • • • •
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1 1/2 tsp garlic, minced
2 lbs assorted vegetables, trimmed and halved (asparagus, mushrooms, red onion, red bell peppers, baby carrots, and yellow squash are great on the grill)
• • •
5 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup parsley leaves, chopped
DIRECTIONS
1. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic. 2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and place in a large bowl. Top with lemon juice and seasoning mixture. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 2 hours.
3. Prepare the grill at medium-high heat. 4. Grill vegetables in batches, cooking 3–5 minutes on each side until browned and tender. (Carrots will cook longer, 6–9 minutes per side.) 5. Remove from the grill, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot.
CAESAR FIREWORKS GRILLING INDEPENDENCE LARKSPUR PEACHES
PICNIC POPSICLES RUBY SPARKLER SUNGLASSES SWIMMING
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