How to Prevent Skin Cancer?
Table of Contents
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time in the year to increase awareness on how to prevent skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the world. At PI Health Cancer Hospital, we have committed ourselves to keeping you informed and safe. And here is your advanced guide to taking proactive steps to prevent the risk of skin cancer.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the result of an abnormal growth of cells in the skin. It is of three main types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each of these differs in the level of severity, and the last one mentioned, melanoma, is most lethal due to its potential to spread rapidly to other body parts. Early detection and prevention are keys to curbing the risks and impacts of skin cancer.
The Role of Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation
Ultraviolet radiation from the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds is the primary cause of skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation causes skin cells to damage the DNA, resulting in mutations leading to cancer. Preventing your skin from being exposed to UV radiation is the best way to prevent skin cancer.
Effective Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer
Sunscreen
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 that protects from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Apply at least 30 minutes before heading outdoors. Reapply every two hours or even more frequently in cases of swimming or perspiration.
- Use sunscreen on all days, even when the sky is cloudy and during the winter months, as harmful UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and reflect off snow.
Protective Clothing
- Wear clothing that covers the maximum area of the skin, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Use clothing with a designated Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) number, which provides protection similar to sunscreen.
- Cover the head with a wide-brimmed hat to shield the face, ears, and neck.
- Sunglasses with lenses designed to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays protect the eyes.
Find Shade
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Stay indoors or find shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest.
- Use umbrellas and shade structures: When outdoors, use umbrellas, trees, or other shade structures to reduce direct sun exposure.
Be Cautious with Medications
Photosensitivity:
Some medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if your medications have this effect and take extra precautions if they do.
Book an appointment with the experts and clear your doubts.
Regular Skin Examinations
- Self-Examinations: Perform monthly self-examinations of your skin to look for new moles or changes in existing ones. Use mirrors to check hard-to-see areas.
- Professional Check-Ups: Get a full body skin exam once a year from a dermatologist. If you’ve been sunburned a lot, had skin cancer, or have many moles, consider getting checked more than once a year.
Educate and Advocate
- Raise Awareness: Disseminate messages on the prevention of skin cancer to friends and family. Awareness is the best weapon in the battle against skin cancer.
- Community Programs: Get involved in or support community programs that spread sun safety and skin cancer prevention messages.
Additional Tips for Sun Safety
- Lip Protection: Wear lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from UV rays.
- Be Wary of Reflective Surfaces: Water, sand, and snow can reflect UV rays, so take extra precaution in these environments.
- Hydration: Be sure to drink plenty of water, as well-hydrated skin is more resilient to sun damage.
Conclusion:
Skin cancer prevention is one of those things that takes a consistently comprehensive approach. We can help decrease the incidence of skin cancer and improve healthier skin for all when we adopt these practices and raise awareness during Skin Cancer Awareness Month. At PI Health Cancer Hospital, we work every day to provide the best care and information to help you remain safe and informed.
Get involved, spread the word to a friend, and help in the prevention of skin cancer. Together, we will make a huge difference in the fight against skin cancer.
About Author
Dr. A. Venugopal
MD (General Medicine), DM (Medical Oncology), MRCP – SCE Medical Oncology (UK), ECMO (Switzerland).
Dr A. Venugopal is One of the best medical oncologist and Hemato Oncologist in hyderabad, currently serving as the Head of the Department and Senior Medical Oncologist, Hemato Oncologist at Pi Health Cancer Hospital in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. He brings over 15 years of extensive experience in the field of Oncology.
The PI Health Cancer Hospital blog provides practical tips on preventing skin cancer, emphasizing the importance of sun protection and regular skin checks. It’s a valuable resource for promoting proactive health habits and empowering readers to prioritize their skin health. These preventative measures are essential for reducing the risk of skin cancer and maintaining overall well-being.