With summer and higher temperatures we have a tendency to wear less clothing and expose more of our skin to the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. Regardless of the terms you use for tanning, more exposure to the sun increases our chances of getting skin cancer. Most of us have heard that we should wear sunscreen and limit our exposure to the sun, but do we really know the facts?
People who have experienced prolonged exposure to sunlight are at a greater risk of developing skin cancer. Severe sunburns in childhood or teenage years can also increase the risk. People with fair skin are 20 times more likely to develop skin cancer than people with darker skin. People with red or blonde hair and fair skin that freckle or burn easily are at the highest risk. People with darker pigmentation can also develop skin cancer, most likely on the palms of their hands and soles of their feet.
There are three major types of skin cancer. Basal cell, the most common form, begins in the outer layer of skin. Squamous cell, the second most common, also begins in the outer layer of skin. Melanoma, the least common and most serious form of skin cancers, begins in the skin cells that produce pigment.
More than a million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year and usually these can be cured. Nearly 60,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed annually with about 5,000 men and 2,900 women dying of it this year.
If you notice that you have a small bump with a pearly center, a firm red lump, a sore that bleeds easily, develops a hard crust, doesn’t heal or a growing bump that may be rough or scaly, you should see your doctor. Any mole that changes shape, is irregularly shaped or changes color should also be checked by a doctor for melanoma.
It doesn’t take much to protect ourselves. You can cover up with light-weight clothing and use one of many effective sunscreens available.
And ladies, sunscreen has an added benefit. Research shows that uneven skin tone, which can be due to unprotected sun exposure, can make a woman look 12 years older.
If you have any questions please call us at Providence Holy Cross Cancer Center 661-288-5965 or come by and access our Cancer Education Center with free use of a computer with internet access at 26357 McBean Parkway, Suite 150.