Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma. In most cases, skin cancer is caused by over exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which comes from the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps. The good news is that skin cancer is highly preventable.
Signs of skin cancer
A visible change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. It could be a new growth, a change in an existing mole or a sore that does not heal. For melanoma specifically, an easy way to remember the warning signs is the ABCDE’s of melanoma rule:
- Asymmetrical: The mole or spot does not have a regular shape.
- Border: The border of the mole or spot is irregular or jagged.
- Color: Uneven or irregular color.
- Diameter: The mole or spot is larger than the size of a pea.
- Evolving: The mole or spot has changed in the past few weeks.
Risk Factors
Anyone can get skin cancer, but there are certain characteristics that can increase your risk of getting skin cancer, including:
- A lighter natural skin color
- Skin that burns, reddens or freckles easily
- Blue or green eyes, and blond or red hair
- Family history of skin cancer
- Personal history of skin cancer
- Older age
Smoking can increase your risk of squamous cell skin cancer and is one of the leading causes of premature aging by damaging elastin and collagen, which is what gives skin strength and elasticity. One of the best ways to protect your skin is to stop smoking.
Skin is the largest organ in the body. Make sure you are doing everything that you can to protect your skin and keep it healthy!
Practice sun safety
Protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is one of the best ways to prevent skin cancer. It’s important to use sun protection all year round, not just during the summer.
- Stay in the shade – Especially during the midday hours (between 10 am and 4 pm) when the sun’s rays are the most harmful.
- Wear protective clothing – When possible, wear tightly knit fabrics that cover parts of your body that would be in the sun. Regular clothing only offers up to SPF 15 protection, but there is some certified clothing that offers higher UV protection. If you are covering your body with clothing, it is recommended to use other forms of protection, such as sunscreen, as well.
- Wear a hat – Wearing a wide brimmed hat can provide shade for your face, head, ears and neck.
- Wear sunglasses – Too much exposure to UV rays can damage your eyes and increase your risk of developing certain diseases such as cataracts and eye cancer. Choose sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Use sunscreen – Look for a sunscreen that contains at least an SPF of 30 or higher, has both UVA and UVB protection and is water resistant. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before you are in the sun and reapply if you are out in the sun for more than two hours or after swimming, sweating or toweling off.
Want to learn more?
Contact your provider today to discuss how to protect the skin you’re in!