Skin Cancer Facts

Did you know that there is no such thing as a safe tan? Having a tan is the skin's response to injury from ultraviolet (UV) light. Ninety five percent of all skin cancers in the United States are attributed to exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

There are three major types of skin cancer:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma
  Most common form. It looks like a clear spot or bump that usually forms on the head, neck, or hand, the size can vary.
  
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
  Can start as nodules or as a red patchy area. These often develop on the lips, face or tops of the ears.
  
• Malignant Melanoma
  Least common, but most deadly
  

The ABCD rule in detecting a melanoma:
Asymmetry: the two halves look different
Border irregularity: the edges are ragged
Color: the color is not uniform
Diameter if it is the size of a pencil eraser or bigger, have it checked out.

Did you know that 80% of skin cancers can be prevented with a few common sense precautions?

• Avoid going outside between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun's rays are hottest.
  
• Wear sunglasses that filter at least 90% of the UV rays.
  
• Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protective Factor (SPF) of 15 or greater. Sunscreen should be applied 20 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun so it has a chance to bond to the skin.
  
• Wear a wide brimmed hat, brim should be at least 4 inches.
  
• Clothes should be a tight weave.
  
• Do a monthly skin check; look for changes in the size, shape or color of moles or any red patches.
  Check your entire body, including between your toes and the soles of your feet.
  
• Tanning booths can cause skin cancers, damage to the immune system and eyes, first and second degree burns and premature aging. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate tanning booths.
  
• If you are taking medications such as over-the-counter, prescribed or even some herbal supplements check the labels some medications can cause an increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Skin cancer if caught in its early stages has almost a 100% cure rate. Have a safe and fun summer and remember the sunscreen!