Sunscreen: How not to become another statistic

It can be easy to forget to apply sunscreen with all of the distractions that take place around the pool, such as barbecues, water aerobics and games. The refreshing water alone could make it seem like the hot San Diego sun isn't hitting you at all, however, it's vital that people properly apply sunscreen to reduce the risk of getting the most common forms of cancer. 

Around 76,000 people are expected to get diagnosed with melanoma – a strand of skin cancer – this year, according to The American Cancer Society. Although it only accounts for two percent of all skin cancers, more than 9,700 people will die from it in 2014, as stated by the source. The Melanoma Research Foundation explained that it remains one of the leading causes of fatalities among skin cancer patients yet 90 percent of the cases are preventable.

About 86 percent of all melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays generated by the sun, according to the source. The risk of getting it doubles in people who have sustained five or more sunburns. A person should be cognizant of sun exposure and apply sunscreen properly to reduce the chance of getting skin cancer. It should be evenly lathered onto the skin 20 minutes prior to going in the sun, according to The Melanoma Foundation. Each bottle is labeled with a Sun Protection Factor, a number that explains the amount of protection against the sun's rays.

Stand up to cancer
Companies make SPF products that range from 2 to 100 which could for an overwhelming decision. However, many people can find something that works for them within a smaller selection. Many dermatologists recommend SPF 15 on the lower side of the spectrum, according to the source. But professionals warn that the SPF number does not increase proportionally with skin protection. This means that a product with double the SPF doesn't provide twice the protection so consumers should keep that in mind while shopping.

Once a sunscreen is chosen, it should be reapplied prior to hitting the pool and throughout the day, even if it's waterproof.