Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. According to current estimates, 40 to 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have skin cancer at least once.
UV radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. In addition, artificial sources of UV radiation - such as sunlamps and tanning booths can cause skin cancer. People who live in areas of the U.S. that get high levels of UV radiation from the sun are more likely to get skin cancer.
There are three common types of skin cancers.
1. Basal cell carcinomas are the most common, accounting for more than 90 percent of all skin cancers in the United States. They are slow-growing cancers that seldom spread to other parts of the body.
2. Squamous cell carcinomas also rarely spread, but they do so more often than basal cell carcinomas.
3. The most dangerous of all cancers that occur in the skin is melanoma. Melanoma can spread to other organs, and when it does, it often is fatal.
The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, especially a new growth or a sore that doesn't heal. Skin cancers don't all look the same. For example, skin cancer can start as a small, smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump. Or it can appear as a firm red lump. Sometimes, the lump bleeds or develops a crust. Skin cancer also can start as a flat, red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly.
Most skin cancers could be cured if they were discovered and brought to a doctor's attention before they had a chance to spread. Therefore, you should check your skin regularly.
How do I perform a total body skin examination? Check your body thoroughly at least every three months. Look for any changes. See a doctor right away if you notice anything suspicious!
Who is most at risk? It is believed that people who always burn, never tan, and are fair with red or blonde hair, green or blue eyes and freckles have a greater chance of developing skin cancer.
Do sunscreens prevent skin cancer? Yes! Studies have shown that sunscreen use can prevent skin cancer.
How should I use a sunscreen? Apply it at least 30 minutes in advance. Apply enough. Reapply frequently. Use broad-spectrum products with a high-SPF. Don't rely on sunscreen alone!
What does SPF mean? Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures the length of time a product protects against skin reddening, compared to how long the skin takes to redden without protection. For example, with an SPF 15, you could stay in the sun 15 times longer than with no protection.
Can children get skin cancer? Skin cancer is uncommon in children. However, damage that later results in skin cancer is accumulated in childhood.
Are sunscreens suitable for infants and children? Sunscreens may be used on babies starting at six months of age. But applying a sunscreen should not be an excuse for keeping a child out in the sun too long.
At what time of day is the sun most dangerous? The sun is most dangerous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Does clothing provide good sun protection? Dressing for sun protection is still one of the best ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Look for a tight weave, loose fit, and darker colors for more protection.
Why are sunglasses important? UV absorption by the eye and surrounding tissues is an important factor in causing both benign and malignant growths on the eyelid skin and on the surface of the eye.
Does skin cancer run in families? Heredity plays a major role in melanoma risk. About one of every ten patients diagnosed has a family member with a history of the disease.
