Save your skin: reduce your risk of skin cancer

Warmer weather has arrived, which means many of us are spending more time outside. But as you’re enjoying the fresh air and soaking up the sun, it’s important to remember to protect your skin and be aware of any of the risk factors associated with skin cancer.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but it’s largely preventable. There are three main types of skin cancer:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Cancer in the cells of the top layer of the epidermis, called the squamous layer.
• Basal cell carcinoma: Cancer in the cells of the basal cell layer, which is directly beneath the squamous layer.
• Melanoma: Cancer in the cells of the melanocytes. Melanocytes make melanin (the substance that produces skin pigmentation) and are in the lower part of the epidermis.

Of the three cancer types, basal and squamous are the most common and can usually be cured, though they can be disfiguring and expensive to treat. Melanoma, however, causes the most deaths, as it tends to spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs.

What to look out for

Not every mole or freckle on your body is going to be cancerous. However, you can know what to look out for by keeping the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma in mind:

• A – Asymmetrical: Is the mole or spot irregularly shaped, with two parts that look different?
• B – Border: Is the border of the mole or spot jagged or irregular?
• C – Color: Does the mole or spot have an uneven color?
• D – Diameter: How big is the mole or spot? If it’s bigger than a pea, that could be a symptom.
• E – Evolving: Has the mole or spot changed at all recently?

Be aware of any new growths or spots, a change to old ones, a change in skin texture, or sores that don’t heal.

When to talk to your doctor

Talk to your doctor about getting screened if you’re experiencing any of the ABCDEs, if you’ve previously had skin cancer, or if you’re at increased risk. Risk factors include:

• Lighter natural skin color.
• Skin that burns, freckles, or reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun.
• Blue or green eyes.
• Blond or red hair.
• Certain types and substantial number of moles.
• A personal and/or family history of skin cancer.
• Older age.

Prevention is key

While you can’t control genetics or family history, most cases of skin cancer are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which damage the skin cells. With this, there are a number preventative measures you can take to lower your risk of contracting skin cancer:

• Stay in the shade.
• Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
• Wear a wide-brim hat to shade your face, head, ears and neck.
• Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher.
• Avoid indoor tanning.

Reduce your risk

Reduce your risk for skin cancer by taking preventative measures. To find out more about your risk, as well as screenings and treatment options, talk to your doctor.