DANBURY — More than one million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Frequent, unprotected sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for most skin cancers, including melanoma. The good news is that there are many ways to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer, or catch it early enough so that it can be treated effectively.

On May 19 and May 20 Danbury area dermatologists affiliated with Danbury Hospital encourage residents to get screened at the annual skin cancer screening. The screenings are part of Danbury Hospital’s public awareness /community benefit campaign during Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Danbury Hospital’s annual skin cancer screenings bring together Danbury Hospital dermatologists and other affiliated clinical health professionals that can allay fears regarding spots on the skin, especially for those considered to be at high risk, including people with light (fair) skin, especially blond or red hair, blue/green/gray eyes, a family/personal history of skin cancer, high sun exposure, multiple sunburns, use of a tanning bed or sun lamps, and high number of moles. Darker-skinned people, including African Americans and Hispanic Americans, can also be affected.

It is not possible or practical to avoid sunlight completely. Many people think about sun protection only when planning to spend a day at the beach or by the pool. Before planning to spend any length of time in the sun remember the catch phrase “Slip! Slop! Slap! … and Wrap” to help you remember the four key ways to protect yourself and your family from the sun’s powerful rays:

*Slip on a shirt.

*Slop on sunscreen.

*Slap on a hat.

*Wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and sensitive skin around them.

The annual skin cancer screenings hosted by Danbury Hospital runs from 6 to 8 pm on Wednesday, May 19, and Thursday, May 20, at the Praxair Cancer Center lobby located on the first floor of the Stroock Building. Screening participants are asked to park in the Red Parking Garage, Locust Avenue entrance. Screening registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and closes each evening at 7:45 pm.

Come to the screening if you have never had your skin checked for skin cancer, you do not have insurance or your policy does not cover a visit to a dermatologist and/or if you want to learn more about preventing or recognizing skin cancer.

For more information, contact Danbury Hospital at 866-374-0007, or visit DanburyHospital.org.