Steps to Prevent Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in America, with more than treated each year. Of all the states, Utah has the highest rate of new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Douglas Grossman, MD, PhD, co-leader of the Huntsman Cancer Institute鈥檚 Melanoma Center and a professor of at 亚洲自慰视频 of Utah 亚洲自慰视频, explains how to protect yourself and defines the ABCDE warning signs of skin cancer.
How to Lower Your Risk of Skin Cancer
- Avoid Peak Hours: Stay indoors or seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun鈥檚 rays are most intense.
- Cover up: Wear protective clothing: long sleeves, pants, a broad-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply 1 ounce of SPF 30 or higher broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays, to your body 30 minutes before sun exposure. Mineral-based sunscreens are longer-lasting and are not associated with allergic reactions. Reapply every hour or after swimming or sweating.
Signs of Skin Cancer
The earlier skin cancer is found, the better the outcome. Grossman recommends examining your skin monthly and checking for moles, using the ABCDE warning signs for melanoma as a guide:
A - Asymmetry: Is one half unlike the other?
B - Border: Are the borders jagged or notched?
C - Color: Is it extra dark, several colors, or changing colors?
D - Diameter: Is it larger than a pencil eraser?
E - Evolution: Has it changed in color or shape over time?
Consult with a dermatologist if you notice any of these warning signs.
What Are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?
It's also very important to know the risk factors for skin cancer. You're at greater risk if you have:
- Personal history of skin cancer
- Numerous moles on skin
- Family history of skin cancer
- Increasing age
- Light or red hair
- Light-colored eyes
- Fair skin or freckles
- History of sunburns or tanning bed use
- Significant outdoor exposure in sunny or high-altitude climates
"Understanding your personal risk factors and taking proactive steps with sun protection and early detection are key to preventing skin cancer or identifying it early, when it's most treatable," Grossman says.
Are Tanning Beds Safe?
Avoiding tanning beds is another way to prevent skin cancer. Tanning beds expose you to dangerous UV rays that are stronger and can cause more damage in less time than sun rays, Grossman explains.
lists tanning beds as a group 1 carcinogen鈥 a substance known to cause cancer鈥攖he same level as tobacco.
