Skin Cancer: Prevention is the Key
Too much sun exposure can lead to skin cancer,
one of the most common of all cancers among men
and women. Most people don't think about skin
protection until the summer months but skin cancer
is something that should be on your mind year
round.
According to the American Cancer Society, it
is difficult to gauge the exact number of cases
since many, unfortunately, go undetected. However,
more than one million cases of non-melanoma cancer
occur every year.
There are two types of skin
cancer — melanoma
and non-melanoma.
Non-melanoma cancers, identified as either basal
cell or squamous cell, are the most common type
of skin cancers. They rarely spread to other parts
of the body. While highly curable, non-melanoma
cancers are still cause for concern.
Melanoma is a more serious or life-threatening
form of skin cancer. It is most often found on
the upper legs of men and the lower legs of women.
Early detection significantly increases the chance
for a cure.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors associated with
skin cancer. They include:
- Moles - People with many moles or large
moles are at increased risk
- Fair skin, freckling or light hair
- A family history of skin cancer
- Immune suppression
- Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays
- A past history of melanoma
People who have been treated with medications
to suppress their immune system, such as transplant
patients, are also at an increased risk.
Early Detection
As with most cancers, early detection increases
the chances for a cure.
If you think that you are at high-risk for skin
cancer, have a skin cancer exam performed by a
doctor. You should also do monthly self-exams
and learn the patterns of moles, freckles and
other marks on your skin so you can be aware of
any changes. If you notice changes in color, shape,
texture or bleeding, contact your doctor.
Prevention
Some steps you can take to minimize your risk
of developing skin cancer include:
- Wear sunscreen on any exposed body
parts. Don’t forget the tips of your ears,
back of your neck and legs and top of your feet.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going
outside.
- Reapply sunscreen at least every two
hours and more frequently if you have been in
the water.
- If you wear a moisturizer, choose one
that has a SPF of at least 15.
- Wear a hat.
- Wear clothing made from tightly woven
fabric.
- Avoid being in the sun during the hours
of 10 am and 4 pm.
To learn more about skin cancer prevention and
your risk of skin cancer, visit our health
encyclopedia.
To make an appointment for a skin cancer evaluation
call, 1-800-789-PENN (7366) or you can also
request an appointment
online.
Reviewed by Lynn
Schuchter, MD
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