Spring and summer are exciting seasons in sections of the country where winter appears to last forever. The air is getting warmer, the sun is getting brighter, and outdoor activities are becoming more common. During this time of year, your skin’s exposure to the sun naturally increases, resulting in a higher risk of skin damage, including the development of skin cancer. What’s the good news? At Sundoctors The majority of skin cancers can be avoided.
What is the definition of skin cancer?
Skin cancer tips for patients – Skin cancer is the abnormal development of skin cells that occurs as a result of excessive sun exposure and damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. Although the majority of instances occur on exposed skin, well-covered parts of the body, such as your genital area or palms, can also be affected. Skin cancer can affect all pigmentations, both dark, and light.
Skin cancer is the most frequent cancer in the United States, according to the Australian Cancer Society, with approximately 5.4 million squamous cell skin and basal cancers and more than 76,000 cancer cases reported each year. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, kills approximately 10,000 people in Australia each year, accounting for nearly 75% of all skin cancer deaths.
What are the most frequent types of skin cancer?
There are several types of skin cancer, but the three most frequent are:
Basal cell carcinoma:- Basal cell carcinomas start in the basal cells of the skin’s outer layer and can look like a pearly or waxy lump, as well as a flesh-colored, flat, or brown scar-like lesion.
Squamous cell carcinoma:- Squamous cells form skin cancer in the outer layer of the skin as well. A hard, red lump or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusty surface are common symptoms.
Melanoma:- Melanoma is the deadliest of all skin malignancies, accounting for only a small percentage of all cases. A mole that changes color, size, feel, or bleeds; a huge brown area with darker speckles; Melanoma can be identified by a small lesion with an irregular border and portions that seem white, blue, red, or bluish-black, as well as dark lesions on your soles, palms, toes, or fingertips, or mucous membranes lining your mouth, nose, nus, or vaginaa.
What can people do to protect themself from skin cancer?
These five strategies for preventing skin cancer are recommended by leading medical professionals, including Sundoctors Clinic:
- Even in the winter and on cloudy days, stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which are the peak hours of sun strength in North America.
- Throughout the year, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to protect yourself from the sun. If you’re swimming or sweating, reapply sunblock every two hours or more frequently.
- Put on some protective gear. Wide-brimmed hats and clothing that covers your arms and legs are beneficial. Sunscreen does not protect against all UV radiation, which is known to cause skin cancer.
- Avoid tanning beds at all costs. UV lamps are used in tanning beds, which can harm your skin and even cause cancer.
- Examine your own skin. Talk to your healthcare staff if you detect any differences.
Conclusion:
If you have concerns about skin irregularities, talk to your doctor. When skin cancer is detected early on, it can be treated. Enjoy the warmer weather, but remember to keep skin cancer prevention in mind.
