Penn's Abramson Cancer Center Offers Programs for Skin Cancer Awareness
With warmer temperatures, many of us find ourselves outdoors more often and for longer periods of time and with less protection for our skin, which translates to more skin exposure to the sun. Unfortunately, many of us do not think about sun protection until the summer; however, good sun protection habits should be practiced year round to reduce risk of developing skin cancer, particularly melanoma.
While melanoma accounts for only 3 percent of all skin cancer cases, it is one of the most common cancers in people under age 30 and results in the most skin cancer deaths.
The earlier melanoma is detected, the better the chance of successfully treating it. The Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania has one of the nation's leading programs dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of malignant melanomas.
Melanoma begins in skin cells called melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that make melanin, which gives skin its color. Melanin also protects the deeper layers of the skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
When people spend time in the sunlight, the melanocytes make more melanin and cause the skin to tan. This also happens when skin is exposed to other forms of ultraviolet light, such as tanning booths. If the skin receives too much ultraviolet light, the melanocytes may begin to grow abnormally and become cancerous.
In men, melanomas are often found between the shoulders and hips, or the head and neck area. In women, melanoma often develops on the lower legs as well as between the shoulders and hips.
Risk Factors for Melanoma |
Sunlight – too much exposure to the sun increases risk, as does frequent use of tanning lamps and booths. |
Moles – certain types of moles increase the chance of getting melanoma. People with lots of moles, and those who have some large moles, are at increased risk. Get to know the pattern of moles, spots, freckles and other marks on your skin to help you recognize any changes. If you notice any changes, contact your health care provider. |
Fair skin – people with fair skin, freckling, or red or blond hair are at higher risk. |
Family history – if you have a strong family history of melanoma, you have an increased risk. |
Immune suppression – people who have been treated with medicines that suppress the immune system, such as transplant patients, have an increased risk of developing melanoma. |
History of sunburns – if you suffered severe, blistering sunburns, especially in childhood or teenage years, you are at increased risk |
Gender – men have a higher rate of this type of cancer than women. |
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Personal history of melanoma – a person who has already had melanoma has a higher risk of developing another melanoma. |
If you are at high risk, you should have an annual skin exam by a dermatologist. In addition, you should practice monthly self-exams to detect changes in existing moles or the appearance of new moles, and make sure you are always adequately protected from the sun.
Tips for Protecting Yourself from the Sun |
- Use a sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied 20 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours.
- If you use a daily moisturizer, look for one with an SPF of 15 or higher.
- Avoid being outdoors in sunlight too long, especially in the middle of the day when UV light is most intense.
- Protect your skin with clothing, including a shirt with long sleeves and a hat with a broad brim.
- Wear sunglasses. Wrap-around sunglasses with at least 99 percent UV absorption provide the best protection.
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May is skin cancer awareness month. In recognition of this month, Penn is offering two special programs:
Patient Education Conference: Focus on Melanoma |
A patient education conference, Focus on Melanoma, will be offered for those whose lives have been affected by melanoma. The conference is presented by Penn's Abramson Cancer Center. |
Date: |
Friday, May 11, 2007 |
Location: |
Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue Hotel |
Registration: |
Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 1-800-789-PENN (7366) or visit the Abramson Cancer Center web site. |
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Free Skin Cancer Screening |
To increase awareness of the importance of early detection, a free skin cancer screening is being offered. |
Date/Time: |
Friday, May 18, 2007
12:30 to 4 pm |
Location: |
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania |
Registration: |
Space is limited and registration is required. Please call 1-800-789-PENN (7366) for more information or to register. |
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