TIPS FOR SKIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Hello everyone and welcome back to the Blog. May is SKIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH, so this week we’re sharing important information that will help keep us safe all summer long.
To begin, there are three types of skin cancer which are, in order of the least dangerous to the most dangerous, basel cell, squamous cell and melanoma. And, when we combine all three types, we have the most common occurring cancer in the world.
Many of us have been affected by this cancer, including myself. The key, of course, is to pay attention to our bodies so we can catch cancer early and treat it successfully.
But, in order to catch this cancer early we need to be diligent and proactive. So, let’s begin by analyzing the risks that determine our chances for developing skin cancer.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY
Exposure to the sun through your occupation or your hobbies always increases our risk for this disease. Construction and road crews, lifeguards and park rangers, for example, all share a greater risk for developing skin cancer.
INDOOR TANNING
A history of using indoor tanning facilities or sun lamps increases our risk for all types of skin cancer.
PIGMENTATION
People of all skin colors are at risk, but those with lighter skin are at a greater risk for developing skin cancer because their skin is more sensitive to UVA and UVB rays. In addition, those of us with red or blond hair and blue or green eyes also have an increased risk for the disease.
SUNBURNS
A history of sunburns, especially those that occurred early in life, increase our risk for the disease. And, of course, those of us with light hair and eyes have a greater risk for sunburn.
MOLES AND BIRTHMARKS
Similar to freckles, those with numerous moles and certain types of moles run a greater risk for skin cancer as do those with dark birthmarks.
PERSONAL MEDICAL HISTORY
Those of us who have experienced one skin cancer have a greater risk for developing another. Also, if diagnosed with certain illnesses, including Parkinson’s disease or breast cancer, one has a greater risk for developing melanoma. And, of course, heredity plays an important part. If one has family members who have been diagnosed with skin cancer, other family members are also at greater risk.
Now, the question I get often is, “If my skin tans easily, am I safe from skin cancer?”
And the short answer is no, not really. Both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays cause skin cancer. And, when these rays penetrate the skin, the skin tries to protect itself by producing more melanin.
Melanin is the pigment that colors our skin. So, even that which is often called a “healthy tan” is an indication that our skin has been injured by ultraviolet rays. And, this continued pattern of tanning and injury can lead to the development of skin cancer.
So, now that we know some of the risks regarding skin cancer, let’s share a few simple tips to help us stay safe.
- Always wear protective clothing outdoors, including long sleeved shirts, long pants, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid outside activity between the hours of 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the sun’s UV rays are at their strongest.
- Always apply sunscreen of a minimum SPF 30 each morning to the exposed areas of your skin 15 minutes before leaving the house.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours if you are sweating or swimming.
- Make sure to undergo a full body check with your dermatologist once every year.
Tweaking a few habits in our daily routine will go a long way in protecting our skin from cancer. And, small simple steps lead to big changes.
On that note, thanks again everyone for joining me. Have a wonderful summer, practice sun safety every day, stay in GOOD HEALTH and . . .
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
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