Skin Cancer Prevention: Tips and Q & A
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Cancer of the skin is the most common of all cancers. Approximately 5.4 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed each year, about 80% of which are basal-cell type. Melanomas account for about 1% of skin cancers, but they are by far the most dangerous, and the rate of melanomas has been rising for the last 30 years.
The American Academy of Dermatology projects that about 161,790 melanomas will be diagnosed in the United States this year.
Skin Cancer FAQ with Leever Doctors
Q: I understand the danger the sun poses, but I like the look of a tan, especially in the winter. Are tanning beds safer than the sun?
Dr. J. Alexander Palesty, Director of the Residency Training Program in Surgery, Director of Surgical Oncology, Surgical Director of Clinical Cancer Research Saint Mary’s Hospital: Many skin cancers can be linked to exposure to damaging UV rays, which most people associate with the sun. But tanning beds and lamps give off the same type of UV rays as the sun, and present the same dangers. In fact, tanning beds give off three to six times the amount of UV radiation given off by the sun. A 2014 study estimated that more than 400,000 cases of skin cancer could be related to indoor tanning in the United States each year — causing 245,000 basal cell carcinomas, 168,000 squamous cell carcinomas, and 6,000 melanomas. Not convinced? The World Health Organization reports that the use of tanning beds before the age of 35 is associated with a 75% increase in the risk of melanoma. UV rays also cause premature skin aging, like wrinkles and age spots, and may also cause cataracts and other serious diseases of the eye. You may miss the look of a tan now, but your skin (and eyes) will thank you in the future.
Q: I have heard that I may be at higher risk of developing skin cancer because of my blonde hair and fair skin. Are there truly risk factors for skin cancer?
Dr. Scott Kurtzman, Chairman of Surgery, Waterbury Hospital: Skin cancer does not discriminate: Everyone needs to take steps to protect against the sun’s harmful UV rays. But some of us do have a greater risk of developing the disease and need to be even more vigilant, including people with light-colored skin, hair, and eyes. If you or a member of your family has had a prior skin cancer, your risk is also increased. Other higher-risk categories include:
- People with many or abnormal moles and/or precancerous skin lesions
- Those who work outdoors or experience excessive sun exposure
- Those who live in sunny or high-altitude climates
- People with a history of bad (peeling) sunburns, especially when they were young
- Those with weakened immune systems
- Those who are exposed to certain substances, such as arsenic
- People exposed to radiation
It is important for everyone to conduct regular and thorough self-exams. Know your skin, and watch for changes. When in doubt, always consult a dermatologist.
Skin Cancer: An Ounce of Prevention
- Avoid the midday (10am – 4pm) sun as much as possible.
- Wear a hat and protective clothing.
- Apply sunscreen frequently, every day, 365 days a year.
- Wear sunglasses that block UV radiation.
- Beware of photosensitive medications.
- Beware of sunscreen allergies.
- Use a PABA-free sunscreen.
- Beware of reflective surfaces like water and snow.
- Avoid tanning parlors.
- Teach your children sun protection at an early age.
- Watch for the National Weather Service UV Index for your skin every day!