Most people will remember being nagged by their parents to put on sunscreen at the pool, or the beach, or at the soccer game throughout their childhood. However, statistics such as “one in five people will be diagnosed with Melanoma in their lifetime,” probably makes that nagging seem a little more legitimate and appreciated. Today, Monday May 6, 2013 is “Melanoma Monday,” as recognized by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). The organization has been asking people to wear orange clothing today to raise awareness for Melanoma.

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. When the skin is exposed to too much ultraviolet light, Melanocyte cells grow abnormally, and appear in the form of a mole. Melanoma can be detected by simply paying attention to any new growths that may develop on your body, or one can undergo a skin cancer check by visiting a dermatologist annually, which is recommended.

Separate from the AAD, is the website MelanomaMonday.com. This site includes statistics informing readers that Melanoma is not just a disease widely affecting Americans, but people all over the world. The United Kingdom has established a law prohibiting minors under the age of 18 from using tanning beds. Tanning salons who violate this law are fined an equivalent of 33,000 American dollars. Other facts include the use of tanning beds before the age of 35 increases the risk of developing Melanoma by 75%.

It seems obvious that doctors and scientists would be publishing statistics and warning people about Melanoma, asking them to protect themselves but what about one of the world’s most popular fashion magazines? Although it is next month, Glamour magazine has named June their “Skin Cancer Issue,” educating readers on how to get amazing skin and how to take care of it. The magazine’s website offers a slideshow entitled the “Two Minute Cancer Check Test,” with several pictures of different looking moles associated with different types of skin cancer and how to detect them.

The purpose of Melanoma Monday and general skin cancer awareness is to do just that- make people aware, not scare them into staying indoors and avoiding fun in the sun. West Palm Beach’s Fox 29, WFLX.com published an article suggesting how to stay safe in the sun. Applying sunscreen 15-30 minutes before venturing outdoors, wearing wide brimmed hats and sunglasses in addition to applying a strong SPF, and being aware that clouds and shade don’t completely protect you from strong UV rays, are included. With summer fast approaching it is important to stay informed while you and your family enjoy the season’s sun and heat.

In addition, Medical Conferences International Inc., offers physicians Skin Cancer Medicine and Advanced Skin Cancer Certification courses. The next opportunities to participate are:

June 28-29 at Intercontinental Chicago O’Hare, Chicago, IL
US Skin Cancer- PCSCM- Skin Cancer Medicine Certification

August 16-17 at LA Live, Los Angeles, CA
US Skin Cancer- PCSCM Skin Cancer Medicine
US Skin Cancer- PCSCS- Skin Cancer Surgery Certification

For more information, visit http://skincancercourses.com/us/index.htm.

According to WebMD, 35 million people in the United States are living with complications that come with Asthma. May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month as deemed by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Why May? During the month of May, is when allergy season is at its peak. AAFA’s main goal is to “educate about diseases and to celebrate by bringing healthy messages to work, school, and home,” according to the AAFA website.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes more than 3,300 American deaths per year and is a major factor in 7,000 deaths, according to WebMD who lists the 10 worst cities in America based on Asthma rates. The top 10 include:

10. Allentown, PA
9. McAllen, TX
8. Oklahoma City, OK
7. St. Louis, MO
6. Hartfield, CT
5. Chattanooga, TN
4. Pittsburgh, PA
3. Knoxville, TN
2. New Haven, CT
1. Memphis, TN

According to the EPA, second hand smoke, dust mites, molds, roaches, pets, Nitrogen Dioxide, chemical irritants, outdoor air pollution, and wood smoke can all trigger an asthmatic reaction. Asthmatic and Allergic reactions share mold, pets, and dust as similar triggers. The Environmental Protection Agency also suggests that we should make every month Asthma and Allergy Awareness month and lists resources as well as examples of communities making a difference.

In addition to the above listed triggers, a hormone imbalance could be responsible for subjecting the body to airborne allergies. Hormonal fluctuation can cause sensitivity and reaction to airborne allergies. Estrogen dominance is not uncommon for women during hormone fluctuation. As a result, estrogen causes histamine to release, leading to coughing, sneezing, congestion and watery eyes; all common symptoms found especially during allergy season.  Tackling the complexity of hormones and hormone replacement therapy are some of the many topics that will be covered in June at A4M’s BHRT workshop in San Diego. For more information, visit http://www.a4m.com/anti-aging-conference-bhrt-san-diego-2013.html.

Staying away from triggers (some listed above) can help prevent allergic reactions and Asthma attacks. Also, seeing a doctor is the best way to get treatment to prevent and cure future attacks.