As summer approaches, it’s time to keep in mind the importance of protecting your skin from UV exposure. Skin cancer can occur when cells are exposed to high amounts of ultraviolet light, damaging their DNA. With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is America’s most common cancer.
-Weakened immune systems or a history of blistering sunburns increase your risk of skin cancer.
-Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of skin tone or age.
-Tanning beds are a major cause of skin cancer, especially melanoma. A tan will not protect you from skin cancer. It indicates sun damage, which is cumulative, and so can indicate a higher risk.
-There are different types of skin cancer, and it can look different from person to person.
-The most common form, BCC often appears on sun-exposed areas like the head and neck. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but can damage bone and tissue if untreated.
-The second most common type, SCC, is often found on the ear, face, neck, or back and is more likely than BCC to grow deep or spread, though it is usually curable.
-Melanoma is the most dangerous form, appearing both on sun-exposed skin and more hidden areas, and is highly treatable if caught early, but can spread to other organs if not treated.
-Those with darker tones will be more likely to have skin cancer on areas that aren’t as exposed to the sun such as their palms and soles, and under their nails.
-If you think you might be susceptible to skin cancer, it can be beneficial to check your skin at least once a month for any abnormal spots or areas.
-Protective clothing and annual medical checkups can also help to prevent skin cancer. \
-Skin cancer can spread to other organs if left untreated long enough.
Skin cancer treatments include chemotherapy and surgery, and advances in stages. Depending on how far along it is when treated it can be an inconvenience or it can be fatal, so don’t wait to have a medical professional take a look at any new or changing spots on you skin. If you are allergic to your sunscreen, consider switching to a mineral-based sunscreen and always test out new sunscreens on a small area of your skin at first.
For more information about skin cancer, you can check out the The National Cancer Institute or The American Academy of Dermatology Association.
