Can Skin Cancer Be Prevented?
Skin cancer is a worrisome diagnosis. Although it cannot always be prevented, there are things that you can do to lessen your risk and catch it early.
It is most important to remember that the majority of skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure. This is because UV rays (also known as ultra-violet radiation) will damage skin cell genes and their DNA structure, making a normal cell become abnormal and cancerous. However, sun exposure starts early, so prevention is essential in childhood. This is because more than half of lifetime exposure happens before the age of 18.
When it comes to ways to prevent sun exposure, we know it can be nearly impossible to spend every day indoors. By staying out of the sun during the UV ray's strongest time period from 11am to 3pm, you can lower your risk. In addition, wearing long-sleeved light-weight clothing can help block sun, as well as hats and visors to protect your face. Sunscreen is essential, especially "broad spectrum" sunscreen that will protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. It is important to apply sunscreen effectively. I recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and to reapply every hour or two depending on the level of activity. Tanning beds are just as dangerous if not more dangerous than natural sunlight and should never be used.
If you have a first degree relative that has experienced malignant melanoma, chances are greater that you may have a genetic risk that will essentially have you predisposed to getting malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Even if this doesn’t apply to you, you should take preventative measures and familiarize yourself with the ABCDEs of skin lesions and perform routine self-skin examinations. This includes taking the time to note the size and shape of various skin birthmarks and moles, and to watch them for any changes. Also, note any new skin deformities and changes in the ones already on your body. This may be a sign of skin cancer, and should be checked out by a doctor.You should also schedule at least yearly complete skin examinations with a board certified dermatologist.
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It is most important to remember that the majority of skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure. This is because UV rays (also known as ultra-violet radiation) will damage skin cell genes and their DNA structure, making a normal cell become abnormal and cancerous. However, sun exposure starts early, so prevention is essential in childhood. This is because more than half of lifetime exposure happens before the age of 18.
When it comes to ways to prevent sun exposure, we know it can be nearly impossible to spend every day indoors. By staying out of the sun during the UV ray's strongest time period from 11am to 3pm, you can lower your risk. In addition, wearing long-sleeved light-weight clothing can help block sun, as well as hats and visors to protect your face. Sunscreen is essential, especially "broad spectrum" sunscreen that will protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. It is important to apply sunscreen effectively. I recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and to reapply every hour or two depending on the level of activity. Tanning beds are just as dangerous if not more dangerous than natural sunlight and should never be used.
If you have a first degree relative that has experienced malignant melanoma, chances are greater that you may have a genetic risk that will essentially have you predisposed to getting malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Even if this doesn’t apply to you, you should take preventative measures and familiarize yourself with the ABCDEs of skin lesions and perform routine self-skin examinations. This includes taking the time to note the size and shape of various skin birthmarks and moles, and to watch them for any changes. Also, note any new skin deformities and changes in the ones already on your body. This may be a sign of skin cancer, and should be checked out by a doctor.You should also schedule at least yearly complete skin examinations with a board certified dermatologist.
Related FAQ's
» Basal Cell Skin Cancer Knoxville - Skin Cancer 101: Basal Cell Carcinoma
» Skin Cancer Facts in Knoxville TN - What are the Different Types of Skin Cancer?
» Skin Cancer and Symptoms Knoxville - Where does skin cancer usually develop and what should I look for?
» Skin Cancer Treatment Knoxville TN - Can skin cancer be prevented?
» Ultra-Violet Radiation Knoxville - What is Ultra-Violet Radiation?
» Skin Mole Changes Knoxville TN - How Does a Skin Mole Change?
» Melanoma Skin Cancer Knoxville - What is Melanoma?
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