Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer and is the easiest to avoid since it is mostly caused by over exposure to sun's ultraviolet rays. It was first observed in the late nineteenth century among sailors, who spent most of their day under the sun. Subsequently, farmers also showed an increase of skin cancer.

Minimizing sun exposure is the best way to prevent skin damage, including many types of skin cancer. Protect your skin from the sun when you can wear protective clothing such as hats, long-sleeved shirts, long skirts, or pants. Try to avoid exposure during midday, when the sun is most intense. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Use a generous amount of sunscreen on all exposed skin, including your lips, the tips of your ears, and the backs of your hands and neck and apply sunscreen at least one-half hour before sun exposure, and reapply frequently. Apply sunscreen during winter months and when cloudy.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, over one million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. While most cases aren’t life threatening, skin cancer can be disfiguring and even deadly if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Don't forget sunglasses. Look for those that block both types of UV radiation - UVA and UVB rays.

Avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds emit UV rays and can increase your risk of skin cancer.

Be aware of sun-sensitizing medications. Some common over-the-counter and prescription drugs including antibiotics; certain cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of any medications you take. If they increase your sensitivity to sunlight, take extra precautions to stay out of the sun in order to protect your skin.

Examine your skin often for new skin growths or changes in existing moles, freckles, bumps and birthmarks. With the help of mirrors, check your face, neck, ears and scalp. Examine your chest and trunk, and the tops and undersides of your arms and hands. Examine both the front and back of your legs, your feet including the soles and the spaces between your toes. Also check your genital area and between your buttocks. Check your skin regularly and report any changes to your doctor.