Skin Cancer Facts, Detection Signs, and Prevention

PREVENTION

Taking care of your skin, avoiding unexposed UV exposure, and routine dermatology check-ups are the best efforts for skin cancer prevention.

THE FACTS

One in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. It is the most common cancer diagnosis for men over the age of 50 and kills more women in their late 20s and 30s than breast cancer. One person dies of melanoma every hour. There is a myth that one bad sunburn is better than chronic sun exposure. In reality - infrequent, intense UV exposure increases the risk for melanoma more than chronic continuous exposure does. In fact, one bad sunburn during childhood substantially increases the risk factor for skin cancer as an adult.

WHAT IS SKIN CANCER?

There are precancerous lesions and three different types of skin cancer. Here’s what they are and what to look out for -

Actinic Keratosis are precancerous lesions that are pink or flesh-colored and feel sharp or rough to the touch. These lesions are a result of sun damage and should be checked by a doctor.

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common and least severe type of skin cancer. Basal Cell often appears as light, pearly nodules and can be characterized by sores, red patches, or a smooth growth with an elevated border.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a more serious skin cancer characterized by scaly, red or pink papules or nodules. These lesions may be open sores and contain surface crust. Squamous Cell can grow and spread in the body and should be checked by a doctor immediately.

Malignant Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and can metastasize quickly. Melanoma is characterized by black or dark patches on the skin and are usually uneven in texture, jagged, or raised. These lesions may have surface crust or bleed. Malignant Melanoma is 100% fatal if left untreated. Early detection is so incredibly important.

ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection:

A: Asymmetry - the two sides of the lesion are not identical

B: Border - the border is irregular on these lesions

C: Color - the lesion is dark and has 2+ colors that fade into one another

D: Diameter - the lesion is at least the size of a pencil eraser

E: Evolving - the lesion often changes appearance

Be mindful when it comes to UV exposure. Always wear a physical spf of 35+ and reapply as recommended. Avoid outdoor tanning or tanning beds and use a self-tanning product instead. Schedule dermatology appointments annually to receive full body checks and see your dermatologist immediately if you notice any changes to your skin.