As we move into warmer days full of sunshine and begin spending more time outdoors, it is important to remember that the powerful rays of the sun do put us all at risk of developing skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer and in most cases is preventable.
Here are some interesting statistics provided by the Skin Cancer Foundation:
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1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70
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More than 9,500 people in the US are diagnosed with skin cancer every day
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Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk of developing melanoma>
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90% of aging skin is caused by the sun
Types of Skin Cancer
The most common types of skin cancer include; Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) - most common, Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) - second most common, and Melanoma - most serious.
About Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
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Common in those with fair/light skin
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BCC Looks like a flesh-colored, pearl-like bump, or pinkish patch of skin
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SCC Looks like a red firm bump, scaly patch, or a sore that heals and then re-opens
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Tend to develop after years of exposure
About Melanoma
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A less common type of skin cancer
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More likely to grow and spread
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Begins in the melanocytes
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Can develop within a mole that you already have on your skin or appear suddenly as a dark spot on the skin that looks different from the rest
Preventing Skin Cancer
While skin cancer is very common and in most cases treatable, it is important to know that it is normally preventable as well. Here are some steps you can take to decrease your risk of developing skin cancer:
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Do not use tanning booths
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Stay in the shade
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Cover up - wear a hat, lightweight long sleeves, etc.
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Use sunscreen every day
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Reapply sunscreen as needed - especially after enjoying water activities
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Examine your skin every month for any abnormalities
Have Concerns? Ask Your Doctor
If you have concerns about existing skin abnormalities, schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss the next steps.
Additional Resources to Learn More:
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/melanoma-warning-signs-and-images/
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/melanoma-skin-cancer.html
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/