Skin Cancer Education; How to Prevent

Posted by impactmelanoma on June 21st, 2019

Skin cancer, like most cancer types, can be cured if discovered in the early stages. However, unlike most cancers, melanoma is one of the preventable types of cancers. With a few strategies, you can reduce the risk of skin cancer. Here are is the D.E.P of skin cancer prevention

1. Determine your risk

Are you at risk of skin cancer? Knowing your risk factor will help you take the necessary steps in preventing cancer development.

Melanoma Support these guidelines apply to all people, it is certain that some individuals may need them more than others.

• Personal or family history of skin cancer

• Precancerous skin lesions

• You tend to freckle or burn easily

• Chronic or non-healing wounds

• Many sunburns

• Exposure to arsenic and other toxic materials

• Radiation therapy

• Organ transplant: people taking immunosuppressant may be predisposed to skin cancer

• You are a white male in his 50s

• People with red or blond hair and fair skin

Keep in mind skin cancer is cumulative; the more risk factors you have, the higher your risk. It is imperative to have an annual skin

checkup by a dermatologist.

2. Examine

Checking yourself for early detection is vital. So, always perform a complete skin check regularly. Do this in a well-light room and in

front of a full mirror at least once a month.

Also, educate yourself on the signs of cancer and the differences between melanoma (the deadliest type of cancer and benign.

Characteristics:

Symmetry: Melanoma borders are asymmetrical while the benign are symmetrical10

Borders: melanoma has ragged or notched borders, and benign are smooth

Color: Melanoma has multiple shades of black or brown spots while the benign has one shade

Diameter: Early spots of melanoma has a diameter of 6mm or larger and benign less than 6mm.

3. Protect yourself

Most skin cancers are largely linked to sun exposures. So, it is crucial to protect yourself. Since skin cancer may take years to

develop, it is crucial to protect yourself at all times regardless of the weather season.

• Stay in the shade and avoid exposure to direct sunlight between 10 am to 3 pm.

• Wear sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 and one that contains both UVB and UVA protection. Additionally, reapply the sunscreen at

least every two hours when you are outdoors. You may want to consider places with portable sunscreen dispensers or buy your

own—they come in handy at times.

• Consider using water-resistant products if you will be using the pool—they do not run off your skin

• Wear protective clothing like a hat, tightly woven and darker clothes. Plus, wear UV protective sunglasses and hats

If you are taking any medications like antibiotics, talk to your doctor or dermatologist before applying any sunscreen or going

outside. Some antibiotics may increase skin sensitivity and may increase the risk of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is preventable and curable if detected early. However, if you have skin cancer, having a skin cancer support group will go 

a long way in helping you recover. The impactmelanoma.org connects you with other Melanoma Events survivors. They also offer support

programs to keep you connected and on track.