While it may be hard to believe, summer is not far away. As we prepare to head outdoors, hit the beaches and parks, and enjoy the longer hours of daylight, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure. May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an opportune time to be reminded of the tools and tips that can safeguard against skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 1 million skin cancers diagnosed annually. Fortunately, when caught early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated, so it is important to be aware of your personal risk factors. According to the American Cancer Society, if current trends continue, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during his or her lifetime.
Types
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, and can come in two types — melanoma and non-melanoma. Most skin cancers are categorized as non-melanoma and develop on sun-exposed areas of the body such as the face, neck, ears, lips and the backs of the hands. Non-melanoma skin cancers are highly treatable, especially when found early. While most non-melanoma skin cancer is considered to be sun-related, other factors can play a role in the development of skin cancer, such as genetics and heredity.
Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can spread to other body tissues and occur anywhere on the body. Most cases develop on the upper back or face. In African Americans as well as other people of color, however, melanoma more frequently develops in areas not exposed to the sun — palms, sole of the feet, nail beds and in between the toes and fingers.
Risk
Everyone is at risk of developing skin cancer, regardless of skin tone, but there are certain general factors you should be aware of that may increase your risk of skin cancer. General risk factors include fair skin, light-colored eyes, blond or red hair, a tendency to burn or freckle when exposed to the sun and a history of sun exposure. It is also important to be aware of your personal family history of skin cancer, as it increases your risk. Knowing your personal risk of skin cancer can empower you to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease and to take the necessary precautions to protect your skin.
Early detection
Early detection is a key defense against all forms of skin cancer, and can increase the chances of successful treatment. It is important to be familiar with your own skin and examine your skin regularly for any changes in quantity, size, shape or color of any spots on the skin such as moles, freckles and beauty marks. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin or have any concerns, you should consult your doctor. If you are over age 40 or have a high risk for skin cancer, you should visit your doctor for regular, complete skin exams. The combination of these efforts provides you with effective tools for early detection and prevention.
Once diagnosed with skin cancer, a variety of treatment options is available. Doctors will determine the appropriate treatment according to the type, location, extent and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as the patient’s general health. Most treatment options remove the abnormal skin cells through surgery or the use of topical medications. The overall goal of the treatment of skin cancer is to remove all of the cancer in order to reduce the chance of recurrence, preserve healthy skin tissue and minimize scarring after surgery when necessary.
Prevention
Fortunately, most types of skin cancer can be prevented by limiting or avoiding exposure to the harmful effects of the sun in addition to knowing your personal risk factors and paying close attention to your skin. As we plan for the upcoming warm and sunny months of summer, there are a number of effective ways to protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of sun exposure:
• Minimize sun exposure
Try to limit direct exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., because the sun’s rays are most intense at this time. This is the case throughout the entire year and in all types of weather, including cloudy days. Even on an overcast day, 80 percent of the sun’s powerful rays can break through the clouds.
• Wear sunscreen
Sunscreen is a great defense against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Always make sure to use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. It is important to follow the instructions on the bottle, apply to all exposed skin, reapply regularly and check the expiration date.
UVA rays are the longer rays that penetrate the skin more deeply and are the chief culprit responsible for wrinkling and aging of the skin. UVB rays are the shorter rays and are considered to be the main cause for most skin cancers and direct damage to the cells’ DNA.
• Wear protective clothing
If you’re spending a prolonged period of time under the sun, especially during peak hours, make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat, pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Know your medications
Some common prescription and over-the-counter drugs can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. You should always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of any medications you take. If one of your prescriptions increases your sensitivity to sunlight, it is important to take the necessary extra precautions.
Skin cancer diagnoses continue to rise in the United States annually, but by being informed, prepared and aware of the risks and prevention tools around sun safety, you can protect yourself and your family. If you have any concerns regarding your skin, you should see your physician, who can answer your questions or recommend a dermatologist.
For more information on skin cancer awareness, visit the National Cancer Institute Web site at www.cancer.gov, the American Cancer Society Web site at www.cancer.org, the American Academy of Dermatology Web site at www.aad.org, or the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Web site at www.ahealthyme.com/topic/home.
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