Skin cancer has increased by 77% in the last 20 years!
Skin cancer can appear anywhere on the body, even parts that are not exposed to the sun.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. At New Age Spa Institute, our students’ education includes a thorough explanation of this wellness topic. As a matter of fact, all our students (including clinical aesthetics, massage therapy, nail technology and makeup artistry) receive thorough evaluations of skin disorders and diseases. For that reason, the classes in which we cover these topics are very detailed. Preparing our students with this knowledge is a step toward the greater good of protecting the general public from a fearful diagnosis.
Skin cancer is defined as numerous types of diseases in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in your skin. Left untreated, skin cancer can spread throughout your body tissues and organs. In general, forms of skin cancer vary in appearance and severity. The three most commonly diagnosed types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BBC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
Considering that 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma. Melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer type, so early detection is essential. Therefore, detecting spots and changes in our skin is important and actually quite simple. In actuality, 90% of melanomas can be spotted without magnification. Conducting monthly self-exams between doctor visits can be lifesaving.
Prevention of skin cancers can be easily incorporated into the daily routine of every individual, from newborns to the elderly.
Skin Cancer Prevention Tips & Knowledge
- It’s important to seek shade and avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This time period is known as the danger zone and when skin damage occurs the fastest. Also, avoid tanning beds!
- Unfortunately, only 33% of the population uses sunscreen. However, most people do not use sun protection properly, mostly due to either misinformation or lack of knowledge. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher is suggested for everyday use. A broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher is suggested for extended outdoor activity. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects from both UVA rays and UVB rays. Meaning it absorbs and reflects ultraviolet radiation. Additionally, depending on the SPF type and level of activity, sunscreen should be reapplied on average every two to four hours or directly after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Another tip is to keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months. Most of the photodamage in a person’s lifetime occurs before the age of eighteen years old. Therefore, it’s important to not only educate oneself but parents and children as well.
- Lastly, a form of prevention is being aware of any changes in the skin’s appearance, such as a recurring sore, a new abnormal growth, or a change in a previous growth. A head-to-toe self-examination every month is recommended. If any of the five warning signs (explained below) are observed, consult a physician immediately.
What are the 5 warning signs?
1. A – Asymmetry
2. B – Border Irregular
3. C – Color Varied
4. D – Diameter Larger Than 6 mm
5. E – Evolving Appearance
It can be overwhelming to find any of these warning signs. Don’t hesitate to go to a physician and get a consult upon the detection of a possible skin cancer growth. Knowing some of the questions a physician might ask ahead of time, can help relieve some anxiety. Most likely, a physician will conduct a general physical exam and ask for medical history.
What questions might a physician ask regarding a possible skin cancer?
- When did you first notice this skin growth or lesion?
- Has it changed since you first noticed it?
- Is the growth or lesion painful?
- Do you have any other growths or lesions that concern you?
- Have you had previous skin cancer?
- Do you take precautions to stay safe in the sun, such as avoiding midday sunlight and using sunscreen?
Remember the sun is everywhere! Keep this in mind when you’re baking in the sun on Montrose beach along Lake Shore Drive. Or gardening in the suburbs or community parks of Park Ridge or Skokie. Consider this blog’s sun safety tips for protecting you and your loved ones from the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S.
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