Prevention, Screening, and Treatment
Having fair skin and getting sunburn easily raises the risk for skin cancer, but everyone is still at risk for skin cancer, regardless of skin fairness. It’s important to take the necessary steps to protect skin from overexposure that could cause cancer.
Tips on Protecting Your Skin from UV Rays
- When UV Rays are strong (10am-4pm), limit your time exposed to the sun (if able).
- Most news stations broadcast the UV index in the weather report. Make sure to monitor your local UV Index!
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF on any exposed skin. For maximum protection, re-apply at least every 2 hours.
- The effectiveness of sunscreen depends on the SPF, (sun protection factor)
- Most dermatologists recommend at least 30 SPF.
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect your skins from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Clothing offers protection from the sun. Hats, sunglasses, and proper attire increase sun protection and decrease potential damage. Even in the winter, you can get damaged by the sun’s rays.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are different types of skin cancer that have different warning signs and will look differently on your skin.
Melanoma
Melanoma often resembles moles and are usually black or brown. Asymmetry, an uneven border, and having a variety of colors are signs that a mole is malignant Melanoma. It is the most common form of cancer in people ages 25 – 29, but people of all ages should check their skin each month to detect abnormalities early on.
Basic Cell Carcinoma
Basic Cell Carcinoma is the most frequently occurring type of skin cancer, and almost half of Americans will have either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma at least once by the age of 65. This type of skin cancer typically looks like sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps, or a scar.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The warning signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma are a thick, rough, scaly patch that will bleed if irritated. It can also look like an open sore or a wart.
An odd-looking mole might just seem like an abnormality to some people, but it can be a sign of something much more serious. If you have noticed a discolored mole, call Southwest Diagnostic Center at (214) 345-8300, and we can test to see if a mole is cancerous.