(NewsUSA) - Backyards are getting a serious glow-up—and pools are leading the charge. From modern designs with resort-worthy features to automation that practically runs the show, today’s pools are all about style and simplicity. The best part? They're easier than ever to own with less upkeep and more “ahhh.”

Whether you're planning a new pool or thinking about an upgrade, here are five trends making waves on the pool scene, according to the experts at Latham, The Pool Company:

Bold Colors & Custom Patterns

Say goodbye to bland and hello to bold. Sleek, modern pool shapes—from rectangles to abstract curves—are pairing with rich, dark blue hues for a dramatic look. Homeowners are also ditching tile borders for seamless, continuous interior patterns, with contrasting accents on steps and ledges to create a high-end, custom vibe.

Plunge Pools with Big Appeal

Don’t have a massive backyard? No problem. Plunge pools offer all the perks of a traditional pool in a smaller, more efficient footprint. Latham’s new plunge designs feature built-in seating, slip-resistant steps, and stylish finishes. Bonus: They use less water, are cheaper to heat, and are easier to maintain—making them a smart, sustainable choice.

Pool & Spa Combos

Why choose between a pool and a spa when you can have both? Combo designs bring together the best of both worlds—relaxing jets, tanning ledges, and spillover spas that add visual appeal and soothing sounds. Whether you're cooling off or winding down, this trend turns your backyard into a five-star escape.

Formidable Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are having a major moment, and for good reason. They’re strong, stylish, and incredibly easy to maintain. Thanks to their smooth, non-porous surface, they resist algae and need fewer chemicals than concrete pools. Even better? They can be installed in just a few days, so you can dive in sooner—and with less hassle.

Awesome Automation

Automation is making pool ownership simpler than ever. With tools like The Attendant, you can monitor and adjust your pool’s chemistry, temperature, and settings—all from the convenience of your phone. Add an automatic safety cover and you’ve got a pool that practically runs itself while saving on energy and maintenance.

Ready to bring your backyard to life? Visit www.LathamPool.com for more inspiration and to learn about financing partners who can help you get funding quickly so you can be splashing in your new pool in no time.

(NewsUSA) - More than 100,000 Americans have said goodbye to their common skin cancer without requiring surgery, owing to a relatively new noninvasive treatment available at many dermatology practices around the nation.

Arizona resident Patty Focken was deeply anxious in 2021 when she learned that a sore on her nose was nonmelanoma skin cancer, a type that’s more common in the U.S. than all other cancers combined. “I was concerned,” she says, “with the possibility of surgical scarring that might accompany a Mohs procedure.” Instead, she found a local dermatologist who offered the GentleCure™ nonsurgical treatment option.

Her doctor used low-level x-rays, like those used in dental offices, guided with hi-definition ultrasound imaging, to kill the cancer cells over a series of 15-minute sessions. The cure rate (freedom from recurrence at six years) for this GentleCure treatment, technically known as Image-Guided SRT, has been shown to be greater than 99 percent, similar to Mohs surgery, with no pain, surgical scarring or downtime.

Focken has enjoyed a lifetime of outdoor activities, dating back to childhood days spent in a backyard pool and on the family boat, often with minimal sun protection. Cumulative sun exposure is the primary cause of skin cancer, although other factors, such as light skin, use of tanning beds or a weakened immune system can increase one’s cancer risk.

Upon moving to Phoenix in 2021, Focken immediately sought out a dermatology practice offering GentleCure as an option, as she was aware that she was at higher risk for a second cancer diagnosis.

Last December, her dermatologist detected a new cancerous lesion on Focken’s forehead and determined that GentleCure was an appropriate treatment option. In a matter of weeks, that cancer was successfully treated and Focken had become the 100,000^th patient to experience the GentleCure solution. “The sessions lasted only minutes,” Focken notes, “and there was nothing to indicate to others that I was in treatment.”

Today, Focken spends countless hours with her grandchildren at the Phoenix Zoo and enjoying other outdoor activities, but always with high-SPF sunscreen and protective clothing. “If any of my friends or family ever get skin cancer in the future,” she says, “there is no question that I will encourage them to discuss the GentleCure option with a dermatologist.”

Kerwin Brandt, CEO of SkinCure Oncology, the company that supports GentleCure in dermatology practices, notes, “In a very short time, GentleCure has won widespread adoption among dermatologists, with more than half of those who offer it being Mohs surgeons who are eager to provide their appropriate patients with a noninvasive option for common skin cancers. Patient satisfaction runs above 99 percent, reflecting the value of this treatment and the quality of service provided by the physicians and radiation therapists who administer it.”

More information about the GentleCure Experience is available at GentleCure.com.

(NewsUSA) - Marine Toys for Tots has been delivering joy and comfort to children in need during the holiday season for 77 years. While the core of their mission is their Holiday Campaign, the Program recognizes that needs exist beyond seasonal boundaries.  That is why Toys for Tots has evolved to provide continuous support to disadvantaged children whenever they need it most.

“Your Help, Their Hope” is a powerful reminder that together, with the ongoing generosity of supporters across the Nation, we can be a source of hope for children in need throughout the year.   

“Toys for Tots’ year-round programs are a testament to our unwavering commitment that no child is ever forgotten,” said LtGen Jim Laster, President & CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.  “‘Your Help, Their Hope’ is more than a tagline – it’s the promise that fuels our mission every day,” he emphasized.

Toys for Tots’ flagship Holiday Program continues to deliver the magic of the holiday season by distributing toys, books, and games to disadvantaged children nationwide at Christmastime. The Holiday Program also supports the Toys for Tots Native American Program which provides holiday magic to Native American children living on remote Reservations where no local campaign exists.

Toys for Tots knows that families and children face adversity year-round—whether enduring personal hardships, recovering from community-wide natural disasters, or navigating systemic challenges that persist over time. The impact of their continuous support demonstrates Toys for Tots' dedication to addressing the unique challenges faced by children in vulnerable circumstances by reminding them they are not forgotten, regardless of the season:

• The Toys for Tots Literacy Program provides books and educational resources to children in low-income communities, empowering them with the tools they need to learn, grow, and succeed—in the classroom and beyond.
• Once critical necessities have been delivered, the Toys for Tots Disaster Response and Recovery Program provides emotional relief and comfort in the form of toys, books, and other gifts, to children whose families have lost everything in the wake of natural disasters—turning despair into hope.
• The Toys for Tots Foster Care Program provides essential resources to support children navigating the complexities of the Foster Care System, reducing anxiety while bringing stability, comfort, and a sense of belonging to their lives.

 “That is the power of our comprehensive programs and the impact of our supporters,” added LtGen Laster.  “We can support millions more children each year, delivering hope to those who so desperately need a reason to believe in a brighter future.”

With the continued generosity of supporters, Marine Toys for Tots can remind children that they are not forgotten no matter the time of year—providing hope, comfort, and joy whenever they are needed most.

To learn more about their year-round programs, or to donate and help deliver hope at Christmastime and beyond, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - Most Americans spend hours each day scrolling through their phones, but an expert at New York Institute of Technology warns this habit may lead to smartphone addiction—releasing the same neurochemicals as hard drugs.

“Smartphones have the same chemical reaction in the brain as drugs and alcohol,” said Melissa DiMartino, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at New York Tech. “Getting ‘likes,’ messages, and notifications from your phone releases dopamine, which makes us feel good, and in turn, we want to repeat these feel-good behaviors. However, when we don’t get them, we feel depressed and lonely, which creates an adverse effect,” she said.

If you feel anxious without your phone and can’t go anywhere without it, these are signs you may be using it too much, noted DiMartino. For others, the continuous stream of updates and being at someone’s beck and call can generate a sense of urgency, leading to increased anxiety and stress.

DiMartino conducted a study analyzing the impact of smartphones in the college classroom. Specifically, she analyzed how mindfulness and attention, as well as anxiety levels, are affected when students’ smartphones are present vs. removed.

In four classes, half of the students turned in smartphones, while the other half kept their phones and used them without restrictions.

After six weeks, students self-reported scores on course comprehension, mindfulness, and anxiety levels. Those who handed in their smartphones reported much higher comprehension and mindfulness scores and lower levels of anxiety compared to the students who kept their phones.

“While our research focused on a younger age group, people of all generations can benefit from routinely unplugging from their smartphones, from improved sleep to relieving the stress that comes with always being ‘on,’” DiMartino said.

DiMartino offers this guide to healthy separation from your smartphone:

Separate to sleep. Mental health and sleep are closely tied together. Leaving your phone outside of your bedroom has been found to significantly improve sleep quality. If you need an alarm, swap out the phone for a traditional alarm clock.

Schedule breaks. Try taking scheduled time apart from your phone, perhaps 30 minutes or one hour to start, gradually extending the length over time.

Do not disturb. Turn off notifications to create limits. Update your smartphone settings to “do not disturb” between certain hours, which can ease the anxiety that a constant stream of text messages, notifications, and alerts brings.

DiMartino is one of many New York Tech researchers who are tackling real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Across the United States, schools and families are grappling with a troubling rise in chronic absenteeism among students. Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% (18 days) or more school days, has grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. During the 2022-2023 school year, nearly one in three students was chronically absent, with even higher rates for students with disabilities, students of color, and students learning English as a second language.

Chronic absenteeism, largely driven by student disengagement, has serious implications for academic success. When students feel disconnected from their school, they are less likely to attend, and their academic performance suffers as a result. Chronically absent students are more likely to fall behind in their studies and are four times as likely to drop out of high school.

To address this, superintendents, principals, and educational administrators are exploring innovative strategies to foster a stronger sense of belonging at school and boost student engagement.

Igniting Peer Leadership to Boost Engagement
Many schools have discovered that mentorship programs, peer-to-peer relationships, and social-emotional learning initiatives can help students feel more connected to their school communities and improve attendance rates. By leveraging one of the most underutilized resources in schools—students themselves—through peer mentorship and leadership programs, school communities are able to cultivate supportive, caring environments that motivate students to attend and engage.

One organization, Center for Supportive Schools (CSS), has seen success with its Peer Group Connection (PGC) program, which fosters peer leadership and mentoring. This program has proven effective in boosting attendance and engagement across grade levels.

“Chronic absenteeism continues to be an ever-present challenge, but it’s not one schools have to face alone,” shares Center for Supportive Schools Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Jonathan Mathis. “By empowering students as leaders and mentors, we can foster engagement, connection, and belonging. Through peer leadership, schools can build a strong culture where every student feels supported, motivated, and ready to succeed.” 

In a 2018 study of more than 8,000 students, CSS found that those who participated in PGC attended school an average of six more days than students who did not. A year after completing the program, participants attended between 2.4 and 7.8 more days of school than their peers. “My peer leaders motivate me to get better grades and to keep coming to school,” shared one PGC participant. 

By encouraging students to take on leadership roles and strengthening peer relationships, PGC helps students develop a stronger sense of identity with their school community, leading to improved academic outcomes. Additionally, the program equips students with valuable leadership skills that will serve them well after graduation.

Elevating Student Voices to Foster Belonging
Another CSS program, known as When Students Lead (WSL), empowers groups of peer advocates to conduct research, identify pressing issues within their school community, present solutions, and implement student-led campaigns to address those issues.

This program helps students feel more connected to their peers and their community by giving them a leadership role on issues that matter most to them. It also fosters important leadership skills, including research, data analysis, critical thinking, collaboration, negotiation, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Making A Lasting Impact on the Next Generation
The evidence is clear: when we empower students to lead, connect, and support one another, their attendance and performance improve. By implementing peer-to-peer programs, schools can reduce chronic absenteeism while creating a stronger sense of community, improving student outcomes, and providing students with crucial leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. For more information, visit www.supportiveschools.org.

(NewsUSA) - If you’re a pet parent who considers your furry companion a true family member, you’re not alone. Pet ownership is bigger—and more indulgent—than ever. The pet industry surpassed $152 billion in 2024, and is expected to top $250 billion by 2030, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA).

What’s fueling this growth? According to the pet products pros at APPA, it is evolving demographics. Gen Z is quickly catching up to the Millennials in pet ownership, bringing their digital-savvy shopping habits into the pet care world. Also, men are adopting cats at a brisk pace, proving that feline companionship isn’t just for ladies anymore.

APPA President and CEO Pete Scott adds, “While we’ve always known pets make us happier, science backs it up: pets provide emotional support, reduce stress, and even boost mental well-being. That’s why pet wellness is booming in 2025.”

Here’s a look at some of the hottest new and award-winning pet products making waves this year at Global Pet Expo, the industry’s premier and largest showcase. These products were recognized at the Expo’s New Products Showcase Awards, which highlighted the best new pet products for 2025.

Wellness for Pets, Peace of Mind for You

Adored Beast Apothecary’s Vital Defense ($119.99), awarded Second Place in the Natural Pet Category, supports cellular balance and longevity. Best in Show winner in the Small Animal Category, HomeoPet Small Animal Nose Relief ($19.99), keeps nasal passages free for rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets.

Smart Tech for Smarter Pet Care

Say goodbye to boring, debris-filled water bowls: The Always Full ® Pet Water Bowl ($179.99), Best in Show winner in the Cat Category, uses a laser to maintain a consistent level of fresh drinking water for dogs and cats. Keeping tabs on your pet has never been easier—or more advanced. SwiftPaws Chase ($299.99), Best in Show winner in the Pet Tech Innovation Category, is a compact lure kit perfect for indoor and outdoor play sessions, offering both physical and mental stimulation for your pet.

Mental Enrichment: The Key to a Happy Pet

Pets need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise. Mo Betta Fish by Yeowww! Catnip ($8.74), Second Place winner in the Cat Category, creates a fun and engaging way to deliver catnip to your cat. The Clink Clicker ($25.99), Third Place winner in the Modern Pet Category, combines a clicker and treat storage for easy and engaging training sessions with your pet.

Treats with a Twist

West Paw’s Montana Air-Dried Beef Sticks ($29.95), Best in Show winner in the Sustainable Pet Category, are a nutrient-dense, high-reward treat made with sustainable practices. Best in Show winner in the Dog Food & Treats Category, The Good List Air Dried Dog Food with Bone Broth by Farmland Traditions/Hillside Farms ($19.99), offers complete, balanced nutrition with air-dried jerky-style morsels.

Style and Convenience for Pet Parents

Jibys by Jiby Dog Crew ($6.00) allow pet owners to personalize their dogs' gear in a fun, exciting way. Jibys can fit almost any size collar, harness and leash, and can be used on human gear so you can match with your pet! Keep your hands warm on cold walks with the world’s first smart retractable dog leash with hand warmer and power bank, CocoLéash by Maison FurRéal ($110.00), the Second Place Winner in the Pet Tech Innovation Category.

Whether you're looking to pamper your pet with wellness solutions, high-tech innovations, or gourmet treats, 2025 is the year to embrace the latest in pet care, because nothing is too good for our four-legged best friends. Learn more about these and other award-winning products from Global Pet Expo by visiting https://globalpetexpo.org/2025-nps-winners.

(NewsUSA) - Child care remains a top priority—and a significant financial investment—for many families. Fortunately, several financial assistance programs are available around the country to reduce the burden of child care tuition for parents while ensuring children have access to a high-quality early learning environment. These programs, available through military, state, federal, employer, and other channels provide essential support for families in need of affordable child care options.

1. Government Programs

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), available at both the state and federal levels, helps eligible families with child care costs. This program provides grants to states, which then administer their own child care assistance programs, offering child care tuition subsidies and other financial support based on income and family size. This isn’t limited to just early childhood but can also apply to school-aged children in before- and after-school programs. Since all state laws differ, these processes can vary by state, county, and/or community. Parents should research subsidies available in their city, county and state to learn more about eligibility requirements. Some providers, like KinderCare, or their school-age program Champions, have subsidy specialists that can help families navigate this process.

The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit helps working families offset child care costs through a federal tax credit. Eligible families can claim a percentage of their child care expenses based on income and spending. Families should consult a tax professional to learn more about claiming this credit and determine their eligibility.

The Department of Defense offers subsidies to reduce child care costs for military families whose children attend accredited child care centers. Military families can visit the military child care website or contact their local family support center for more information about eligibility and application procedures. Some providers, like KinderCare, work with national partners such as Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) to make this process easy for families so they can find support when they need it most and ensure continuity of care for their children as they move around the country.

Additionally, free public prekindergarten programs, funded by state or local governments, focus on preparing children for kindergarten by promoting literacy, math, and socialization skills in an early childhood setting, either in local schools or in community-based child care centers. Parents can contact their local school district or early childhood education agency for enrollment details and eligibility requirements. Some community providers, like KinderCare act as a host location for these programs.

2. Employer and School-Sponsored Benefits

Increasingly, employers are working with child care providers like KinderCare to incorporate child care benefits, such as on-site care, tuition discounts, backup care days and priority access to local child care centers, into their compensation packages, as reliable child care is essential for effective job performance. According to recent data, employer-subsidized child care remains a top desired benefit for parents returning to the office. Parents should check with their employer’s HR department to find out if they offer child care benefits and inquire about the process to utilize them. 

3. Local and Provider-Specific Programs

Some child care providers offer special discounts, including refer-a-friend programs, where parents can earn savings or bonuses by referring others to the provider.

Additionally, many centers offer sibling discounts, providing a reduced rate for families enrolling multiple children. These discounts can help reduce overall child care costs. Families should inquire with their providers about available options.

How to Apply and Get More Information

Families interested in child care assistance should research available programs in their area, review eligibility requirements, and gather necessary documentation, such as income verification or proof of employment. Local child care resources and referral agencies can offer valuable guidance in navigating these programs, as can child care providers.

No matter the location, every family should have access to excellent care for their children. Quality should not be compromised by cost. Parents are encouraged to do their own research and reach out for help to see what options they may have for child care tuition support.

(NewsUSA) - Troy Ita’s life was turned upside down by diabetes. Thankfully, he doesn’t have to compromise lifestyle or family time with the help of groundbreaking technology.

Family is at the center of Troy’s life. Every year he attends his annual family reunion, a long weekend filled with games, cooking and campfire singing. Last year was the 47^th edition and they kicked off with an auction of Auntie’s famous huckleberry raspberry jam, attended by 173 people spanning 6 generations.

It was on the way to one of these gatherings 20 years ago that Troy first noticed that he had to use the bathroom excessively. He wasn’t aware this was a symptom of diabetes. After going to the doctors, Troy was told his blood glucose levels were dangerously high and he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

He struggled to accept his new diagnosis and what it meant for him as someone who was constantly on the move, both for work and when pursuing his passions in music and as a dog rescuer. “I spent a lot of time not really dealing with my diabetes, until I met the right endocrinologist,” Troy reflects, “He’s the one that really saved my life. He’s the one that turned me around.”

Like many people living with diabetes, Troy experimented with a range of traditional, short-term continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) but found they weren’t the right fit for him and sometimes added to the burden of managing his diabetes. “My biggest issue was that they fell off constantly. I’m a big guy at 6 foot 5, so I would knock it off getting into the car! These things are expensive, and I was frustrated at having to replace my CGM whenever it fell off or failed early.”

Troy was introduced to an Eversense CGM in 2018 by his endocrinologist after struggling to find a technology that would help him get his diabetes under control.

Eversense CGM systems are the only long-term CGMs available. Whereas traditional CGMs last just 10-14 days, Troy currently uses the Eversense 365, which lasts an entire year.

Eversense’s tiny sensor rests comfortably under the skin and the removable transmitter which sits on the arm can be taken off and put back on without wasting a CGM*. This unique design gives users like Troy unmatched flexibility in their day-to-day lives.

Troy says the comfort of being able to take off his transmitter to cleanse the skin underneath is a big relief because previously he felt irritations and itchiness, potentially caused by using traditional CGMs. The Eversense transmitter sticks to his arm via a gentle, daily-use, double-sided silicone-based adhesive. Troy benefits from the adhesive which is gentle on the skin and holds the smart transmitter firmly in place.

Being able to apply a fresh adhesive daily allows Troy to clean his skin and take a shower, without something attached to his skin, meaning he can manage his diabetes without a lingering itch.

This flexibility also means Troy doesn’t have to worry about having his sensor knocked off, particularly when he’s working hard to get dogs ready for adoption. “I had a hard time with the dogs before, as they jump around a lot and would often knock off my sensor. Now, I can take the transmitter off when I’m near the bigger dogs and I’m good to go,” Troy says.

Troy’s family can also rest easy knowing he’s safe while pursuing his passion. “It puts my mind at rest knowing he won’t be left stranded needing a replacement CGM when he’s away from home,” his wife commented.

In addition to his family support network, Troy says finding support within his community was another important step in his journey to managing his diabetes. “You’re not on an island by yourself, and that makes such a huge difference”, he says, “it’s good to know other people are experiencing the same things.” He urges anyone newly diagnosed not to be afraid to seek out a support community.

Eversense has given Troy control over his diabetes management, allowing him to live life uninterrupted and enjoy his family reunions to the fullest. If you would like to learn more about Eversense, visit EversenseDiabetes.com/get-started-today.

Please note for important safety information, see https://www.eversensediabetes.com/safety-info

Troy Ita is an Eversense brand ambassador and this article was sponsored by Ascensia Diabetes Care

*There is no glucose data generated when the transmitter is removed

(NewsUSA) - “Onward, Ye Heroes” by C.S. Brown

In this exciting conclusion to the “Smoke Without Ash” fantasy series, three heroes must stand on the front line to defend the world from the forces of evil. Pushed by clans of dragons to accept a responsibility that never should have been theirs, they must face the Smoke Without Ash as it emerges from the northern deserts.

Driven by prophecies that suggest one of them is the Hero of Destiny, they lead the combined armies of men and dragons against the approaching menace. But prophecy is never clear, and they do not know which of them is the foretold hero.

They struggle to learn the truth, but the Smoke Without Ash advances. Out of time, they must find a way to work together, hoping they can answer the question before it is too late and darkness engulfs the world. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4h7MHbB.

“A Life in Frames” by Leonora Ross

A photojournalist consumed by his passion for telling stories through his camera lens. A father and son at a war of wills. Lovers struggling to find a way to each other.

This coming-of-age literary saga follows Namibian photojournalist Lejf Busher, an intense and complex individual with his head in the clouds. Two women are central to Lejf's existence: his mother and the woman he loves. Destined for success and international acclaim, he discovers the complex reality of a career that separates him from his relationships. Lejf's expectations of a world and people he cannot change force him to confront his fears and choices when he can no longer run from them.

“A Life in Frames” is about the push and pull between the ties that bind us and the desires that motivate us, and about coming to grips with the consequences of unspoken and misinterpreted words. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3DvWeLG.

“Estranged: How Strained Female Friendships Are Mended or Ended” by Susan Shapiro Barash

When life gets hard, women turn to their female friends. Husbands, partners and jobs come and go, but close friendships are our bedrock. Until they're not. What happens when these bonds sabotage instead of support? By peeling back the societal narrative that our friendships are meant to last forever, Susan Shapiro Barash uncovers a more nuanced reality: the closest bonds do falter.

“Estranged” is an eye-opening investigation/practical guide for women navigating the murky waters of suboptimal friendships. The book sheds light on the unspoken pain of estrangement — both for the "estranger" who walks away and the "estrangee" who is left behind. Amid candid confessions of betrayal and grief, Barash challenges women to reimagine their friendships and take the bold step of letting go when necessary.

This cutting-edge book offers an empowering path forward: learning to prioritize self-worth, stability and authenticity over loyalty to friendships that no longer serve us. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4ijtR2n.

“Horrible Women, Wonderful Girls” by Julie Ann Sipos

In this spirited satire of sisterhood and survival across The Urban Frontier, a daring new literary heroine emerges to heal a divided nation — whether it wants her to or not.

Kids' entertainment executive Jaycee Grayson, fresh from rehab and forced out of her hard-won studio job, seeks the unlikely refuge of Littleburgh, Wisconsin. There she expects to find like-minded ladies helming Littleburgh's famous high-end doll empire — only to confront an unfriendly outpost of Prairie Karens, an army of happy backstabbers harboring a billion-dollar web of secrets and masks.

Fueled by irreverence and wit as sharp as a stiletto skating on thin ice, a twisted plot leads Jaycee and her fellow misfits toward either a joyful rebellion or a public execution in the town square. Buckle in for a poignant, provocative and darkly funny showdown between Hollywood and the heartland. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3DJimlV

(NewsUSA) - If you put on socks this morning but skipped the sunscreen, you’re doing it wrong — at least according to a new nationwide campaign launched on  World Health Day  earlier this spring.

The #WearSunscreen campaign, led by the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and supported by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) and the Health In Hand Foundation, is reminding Americans to make sunscreen part of their daily routine — no matter the time of year, your age, or your skin tone.

Because here's the deal: skin cancer is the most common cancer in America, and it doesn’t take a beach day to get burned.

 “Sunscreen is one of the most reliable and accessible tools we have to reduce the risk of skin cancer,” said Dr. Jane Yoo, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City. “Just like brushing your teeth or clicking your seatbelt, wearing sunscreen should be a consistent part of your daily routine all year long. And the good news is — it works. Regular sunscreen use can cut your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma in half and lower your melanoma risk by 40 percent.”

The stats are sobering. More than 5 million people are treated for skin cancer in the U.S. each year, and melanoma, the deadliest form, is on the rise. Experts estimate one person dies of melanoma every hour.

But here’s the good news: sunscreens work, and they’re safe.

That’s the message behind #WearSunscreen, which will use smart graphics, dermatologist tips, myth-busting facts, and relatable messages to break through. The campaign encourages everyone to spread the word by posting about their sun-safe habits, and tagging friends, and most importantly, to spread on some sunscreen, too.

And no, you don’t need to agonize over which kind to use. “All FDA-approved sunscreens — mineral or non-mineral, lotion, stick, or spray — are safe and effective when used as directed,” says Mary Leonard, Executive Director of the Health In Hand Foundation, a nonprofit focused on educating consumers about the safe use of self-care products. “The best sunscreen is the one you’ll use and reapply regularly.”

What about all the sudden sunscreen skeptics on social media? The campaign has answers for them too, including dermatologists explaining why your skincare routine isn’t complete without SPF and why fears about sunscreen ingredients are misguided especially when compared to the very real proven threat of deadly skin cancer.

The #WearSunscreen campaign is sharing content across print, broadcast, and social media platforms nationwide and providing information and assets for other organizations and consumers to share. Using the hashtag #WearSunscreen, people are encouraged to post about their own sun safety habits, share why sunscreen matters to them, and to tag friends and family to keep the momentum going.

So next time you step outside, take a second and slather up. Your skin will thank you tomorrow and in 20 years. Find campaign information and materials at www.personalcarecouncil.org/sunscreen.