Skin Cancer Prevention and Detection Tips

Skin cancer is much more common than most people realize. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Fortunately, this type of cancer often has an excellent prognosis when it is detected early. If you want to protect yourself against the dangers of skin cancer, there are two important things you need to know: how to prevent it and how to spot it.

Skin Cancer Risk Factors

Before diving in to our skin care prevention tips, it helps to understand just how much risk you really have. While anyone can develop skin cancer, there are certain risk factors which can greatly increase your chances of getting it, including:

• A fair or light natural skin color
• Blue or green eyes
• Red or blond hair
• Skin that burns or freckles easily or becomes painful in the sun
• History of sunburns, especially as a child or teenager
• Excessive sun exposure and/or living in sunny or high-altitude climates
• A large number of moles
• Certain abnormal moles which are irregular and larger than typical moles
• Precancerous skin lesions known as actinic keratoses
• Family or personal history of skin cancer
• Older age
• Exposure to certain substances, such as arsenic
• Weakened immune system

Those who have one or more risk factors for skin cancer need to be especially serious about taking precautionary measures to prevent it. 

Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer

There are a number of simple things you can do each and every day to help prevent skin cancer from developing. Some of the most important steps include:

• Wear sunscreen every day. Regular daily use of SPF 15 or higher can cut the risk of developing melanoma in half. For even more protection, use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours.
• Stay in the shade. The sun’s rays are at their peak between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so try to avoid direct sun exposure during this time of the day. 
• Cover your skin. If you’ll be out in the sun, wear a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays, and clothing that covers your arms and legs.
• Avoid getting sunburned. On average, the risk of melanoma doubles when someone has had more than five sunburns. Keep in mind that water, sand, and snow can reflect the sun’s damaging rays and increase the risk of sunburn.
• Do not use indoor tanning devices. The UV radiation from an indoor tanning bed can be 10 to 15 times stronger than the sun. There are safe self-tanning products that can be used as alternatives, but remember that you still need to wear sunscreen.
• Ask about medication side effects. Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can increase sensitivity to the sun. Check skincare products as well for any warnings about increased risk of sunburn.

Skin Cancer Symptoms to Watch For

Early detection is key with skin cancer, so it’s important to regularly check your skin for warning signs. You’ll need a full-length mirror as well as a hand mirror so you can see your scalp, back, and buttocks. Be sure to examine all of your skin, including the underarms, palms, soles of the feet, and between the toes.

So, what are you looking for, exactly? Symptoms can vary slightly between the different forms of skin cancer, but one of the best strategies is to evaluate any moles for the ABCDEs:

• A = Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other.
• B = Border: The border of the mole is irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
• C = Color: The color varies rather than being consistent throughout.
• D = Diameter: Most melanomas have a diameter of 6 mm or more (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• E = Evolving: It looks different from other moles on your body or is changing in shape, size, or color.

What to Do if You Have Skin Cancer Concerns

Skin cancer can affect anyone. However, if you have one or more risk factors and/or have concerns about certain moles or spots on your body, it’s important to be especially proactive about taking preventative steps.

First, schedule a physical exam with your doctor to talk about your skin cancer concerns. They can walk you through some of the key points about protecting your skin and provide a referral for a dermatologist. 

Next, make an appointment with a dermatologist so you can have your skin thoroughly examined and discuss your concerns in more detail. Be sure to continue seeing your dermatologist at least once per year to keep an eye on your skin and make sure that, if you do develop skin cancer, you can catch it early on when it’s easier to treat.

At Bella Terra Primary Care, we use an evidence-based model that encourages preventive care to reduce your risk for diseases like skin cancer. Contact us to schedule a physical exam so you can discuss your risk factors or concerning symptoms. Dr. Karki can help you protect yourself with lifestyle tips, health screenings, and physician referrals.