Preventing skin cancer should be top of mind for all of us - all year round. Skin cancers continue to be on the rise, but there are steps we can all take to keep ourselves and our family members protected.

Skin cancers are thought to be caused by overexposure to UV light, coming from both artificial and natural sources. The most common cancer in the United States is skin cancer. 

Types of Skin Cancer

There are several types of skin cancer that can affect our bodies. While some are less invasive (are visible on the surface of your skin, or don’t grow deep into your skin layers), they all need to be looked at and treated by a doctor. Do you know what the different types are?

• Melanoma—this is the most serious type of skin cancer and leads to more deaths that the other types. 
• Basal cell & Squamous cell (nonmelanoma)—these are the most common types of skin cancer. They are usually found on the face, hands, arms, neck, and head. 

 

ABC’s of Skin Cancer

It’s important to keep an eye on your skin and watch for any changes to it. Watch for new moles, a sore that won’t heal, or changes to existing moles. If you see anything that doesn’t look quite right, contact us for an appointment to get it checked out. Early detection is critical. 

Changes to moles are a warning sign for melanoma and other skin cancers. Following the ABC’s is an effective way to remember what to look for and pay attention to. These checks can take only a minute or two, so before drying off after a shower, make sure to conduct your skin check:

• Asymmetrical—is the mole an irregular shape with two parts that look different from each other? Moles should be round in shape.
• Border—is the border jagged or irregular? Most moles should have a smooth border.
• Color—is it uneven tones? It should all be one color.
• Diameter—Is the mole larger than the size of a pea?
• Evolving—has the mole changed size or shape over time? This is one of your best indicators. Conducting your skin checks will help you become more familiar with what is normal, and what has changed over time.

~This information is from the CDC. 

 

Stay Safe

There are many steps you can take to decrease the risk of skin cancer and keep everyone in your family as safe as possible. 

• Wear sunscreen every time you are outside—no matter what season it is. That’s right… Even during Ohio’s most brutal winters, sunshine and UV rays can still cause harmful damage to your skin. 
  • Use a sunscreen that offers a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher, is water resistant, and provides coverage for both UVA and UVB rays (“broad-spectrum”).
  • Apply a generous amount at least 15 minutes before heading outside—don’t wait to do it when you get to the pool or start exercising.
  • Reapply every 2 hours and after going in the water or sweating.
  • Don’t forget to use SPF lip balms on lips. You can get lip balm that has it included!
  • Remember to wear it in the car—sun rays do come through the windows.
• Stay out of the sun when possible—especially between 10am-4pm.
• Wear light colored clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Avoid using a tanning bed.
• Pay attention to the UV index (can be found by watching the weather, checking a weather app, or looking it up on the internet). If it is at a 3 or above, protecting yourself is even more important. The higher the number, the stronger the sun’s UV rays.

 

Spending time outdoors makes us feel better and is good for our mental health, exercise, and fun! Protect yourself and stay safe. 

 

Remember, even with proper skin care, some of us may be more likely to get a form of skin cancer in our lifetime. Keep up with skin checks, and if you notice something from the ABC’s list that needs to be reviewed by a Dermatologist.