May is National Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, and there is no better time to learn about steps you can take to prevent this condition and what to do if you suspect that a change to your skin may be skin cancer. Here is an overview of common skin cancer risk factors, symptoms that may indicate that a skin change should be looked at, and steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Risk Factors
Excessive exposure to sunlight or tanning is the most common risk factor for developing skin cancer, especially for individuals that frequently experience severe sunburns. Every sunburn results in some amount of lasting damage to your skin, and changes to its appearance over time may mean that you are becoming more likely to develop skin cancer. While most cases are at least partially linked to excessive UVA or UVB exposure, certain individuals may be more likely to develop skin cancer even if they do not receive as much sun as others. Some of these risk factors may include:
- Having a lighter skin color or skin that burns easily
- Being prone to developing freckles or other skin changes that are linked to the sun
- Having blond or red hair
- Having blue or green eyes
- Having a family or personal history of skin cancer
Common Skin Cancer Symptoms to Watch For
Most types of skin cancer result in large moles or other significant skin changes. These changes are generally more likely to be some type of skin cancer if they become larger, have uneven edges, change colors, or are dark or painful. Certain types of skin cancer tend to have characteristic appearances that make it possible for your doctor to be reasonably sure of a likely diagnosis prior to testing, but it is also possible for skin cancer to initially appear to be benign. It is also possible for skin changes that are not cancerous to look similar to various types of skin cancer, which means that it is important to have any new or otherwise suspicious growths checked by your doctor to rule out skin cancer or begin treatment if necessary.
Protecting Yourself From the Sun's UVA and UVB Rays
Avoiding excessive sun exposure is key when it comes to reducing the UVA and UVB rays your skin is exposed to and reducing your likelihood of developing skin cancer, which can significantly decrease your chances of developing skin cancer. Wearing sunscreen during prolonged exposure to the sun is a must, as well as staying in the shade or indoors during the middle of the day when the sun's rays are the strongest whenever possible. It can also be helpful to wear long sleeves and a hat during extended sun exposure, as well as to use specially-formulated makeup products that include SPF. Avoiding tanning beds altogether is also a must, and tanning lotions can be a helpful alternative to this type of artificial tanning.
Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing skin cancer is often as simple as testing a sample of skin from the suspicious area. This test, called a biopsy, is a helpful tool for determining whether cells are benign or cancerous. If the area is determined to be skin cancer, it will typically be removed, and you may also receive radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments to make sure all the cancerous cells are removed or killed. Starting treatment as early as possible is a key factor in determining how well your body will respond to treatment, and skin cancer is usually relatively easy to treat compared to many other types of cancer if it is found and treated as early as possible.
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Resource:: American Academy of Family Physicians
