Shade Structure Grants Available

Dermatologists often tell their patients to seek shade. Staying out of the sun can greatly reduce a person’s lifetime risk of getting skin cancer. Because shade is so important, the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) offers grants for permanent shade structures.

Each year, the Academy awards grants of $8,000 each for shade structures. The application for the 2011 grants is now available. To be eligible, an organization must be a non-profit organization or public school. It must primarily serve children and teens ages 18 and younger. And, it must have an existing sun-safety or skin cancer awareness program. To learn more about these grants, visit: Shade Structure Program.

Protect Yourself & Your Family

The sun is shining brightly this week -- Are you protected? Learn some "Sun Safety" facts from the American Academy of Dermatology: http://www.playsmartsun.org/sun_safety.htm

Are Myths Putting You at Risk?

A survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology found that most people are concerned about skin cancer and want to reduce their risk of developing it. This survey also revealed that some common myths mislead people into believing that they are reducing their risk when they’re not. You can find out whether common myths are increasing your risk for skin cancer by taking this survey.

To help you boost your score, here are a few of the correct answers:

• Getting a base tan will not protect your skin from sun damage.

• A sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 does notprovide twice the protection as a sunscreen with an SPF 15.

“Suntelligence” Survey