Free sunscreen in state parks will help Coloradan's protect themselves from the sun's damaging rays
UCHealth and CDPHE are partnering with IMPACT Melanoma to raise awareness about skin cancer prevention
Aurora, Colo. (June 24, 2024) - Visitors to seven of Colorado’s state parks can take advantage of free sunscreen stations to protect themselves from the sun's potentially damaging rays during their outdoor adventures.
“Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer,” said Dr. Jacob Whitsitt, dermatologist with UCHealth’s Cherry Creek Medical Center. “Fortunately, this type of cancer is preventable by adhering to some easy-to-follow precautions including sun protective clothing with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure, when possible, between the hours of 10 a.m. – 2 p.m."
UCHealth and CDPHE’s Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (CCCCP) are partnering with national non-profit IMPACT Melanoma to fund sunscreen stations at seven state parks. According to IMPACT Melanoma, prevention is essential to avoiding skin cancer risk and adopting healthy sun habits is important for all, especially 15–29-year-olds, where skin cancer is the second highest form of cancer.
The sunscreen stations will be available at the following state parks:
- Chatfield State Park (Douglas and Jefferson Counties)
- Roxborough State Park (Douglas County)
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park (Gilpin and Jefferson Counties)
- Eleven Mile & Spinney State Parks (Park County)
- Ridgeway State Park (Ouray County)
- State Forest State Park (Jackson County)
- Castlewood Canyon State Park (Douglas County)
“One of our primary goals is to encourage healthy behaviors to lower the risk of cancer,” said Karryn Christiansen, Colorado Comprehensive Cancer Control Program representative. “With Colorado’s altitude and plentiful sunshine, it is extremely important to proactively take steps to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.”
This program is a part of UCHealth’s Ready. Set. CO – a statewide challenge encouraging Coloradans to take proactive steps to live their best, Colorado healthy lives.
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