Skin cancer prevention strategies over the summer months

June 22, 2013

Skin cancer prevention strategies over the summer months

As the most common cancer in the U.S., skin cancer accounts for nearly 50 percent of all diagnosed cancer. Generally broken into two categories, non-melanoma occurs most frequently yet melanoma the deadlier form accounts for three-quarters of all skin cancer deaths.

One of the most dangerous activities that will increase your chance of getting skin cancer is not seasonal. Indoor tanning beds have been linked to melanoma, cancers of the eye and squamous cell carcinoma. It is best to avoid all indoor tanning.

During the sunny, summer months, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommends wearing sunscreen to avoid UV radiation, which can do damage in as little as 15 minutes. Sun block works by reflecting or scattering sunlight. Even on cloudy and cool days, it is important to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin. Also, remember to reapply after swimming or strenuous exercise that causes you to sweet.

Consumer Reports recently gave the highest ratings for blocking dangerous UV rays to Coppertone, Wal-Mart and Walgreens store brands. This goes to show that the most expensive option is not always the best.

In addition to sunscreen, the CDC also recommends several other easy options:
-Seek shade - when available stay under the umbrella or a nearby shelter
-Cover up - loose fitting clothing with tightly woven fabric or a hat provide additional protection
-Wear sunglasses - sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays, reduce the risk of cataracts and protect delicate skin near your eyes.

While prevention requires limiting sun exposure, early detection and preventative screening improves outcomes. It is also necessary to carefully track moles especially for fair-skinned individuals and those who live in states that received more UV rays or sunshine such as South Carolina.

Signs to watch for that could indicate the possibility of skin cancer

Monthly self-examinations are helpful. You should look for changes in freckles, moles and other marks. On your face, neck and arms that receive the most sun, watch for a scaly red patches, open sores that might persist for weeks and small lumps that bleed following a minor injury.

Melanoma can occur anywhere, but common spots for men include the back, chest, head or neck. Women often discover lesions on their lower legs. Watch for abnormal or "ugly-looking" moles, any spot that changes in shape, size or color, moles with ragged edges or that are wider than the head of a pencil eraser or moles that were flat but later increase in height.

When you note any of the above, see a dermatologist. An innocuous mole or spot that does not hurt could still pose serious risks.

Request the pathology report

After a biopsy when a skin cancer is removed, request the pathology report. Look for a statement that the margins are clean, which indicates that the doctor was able to remove all the cancerous cells. When margins are not clear, you need to have a dermatologist remove the rest.

If you have concerns that a dermatologist failed to diagnose your skin cancer in a proper manner, contact a South Carolina medical malpractice attorney for more information.

Article provided by Furr & Henshaw
Visit us at www.scmedicalmalpractice.com