Skin Cancer Prevention: Protect Your Skin from Harmful UV Rays
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and can affect anyone, although certain individuals may be at a higher risk. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, whether from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, is the primary preventable cause of skin cancer.
Skin cancer can affect individuals of all skin colors, although the incidence is significantly higher among non-Hispanic White individuals compared to non-Hispanic Black or Asian/Pacific Islander individuals.
Unfortunately, skin cancer in individuals with darker skin tones is often diagnosed at later stages, making it more challenging to treat effectively. Studies have shown that patients with darker skin tones have lower survival rates for melanoma compared to those with lighter skin tones.
It is important to note that skin cancer can occur in areas not typically exposed to the sun in individuals with darker skin, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, inside of the mouth, and even under the nails.
Skin cancer is a condition that can develop in individuals of all ages, races, and nationalities. Surprisingly, it can also occur in unexpected areas of the body. Some of these less commonly checked areas include the eyelids, scalp, lips, groin, hands, and feet.
The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of protecting the skin from UV light exposure to prevent skin cancer. This includes avoiding indoor tanning beds and taking outdoor precautions such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing (long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses), and applying broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on exposed skin.
It is also crucial for individuals at higher risk, including those with a personal or family history of skin cancer, to conduct regular skin self-exams. If any unusual spots, changes, itching, or bleeding are noticed, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist for further evaluation. Schedule a skin cancer screening exam with us today!
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and can affect anyone, although certain individuals may be at a higher risk. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, whether from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, is the primary preventable cause of skin cancer.
Skin cancer can affect individuals of all skin colors, although the incidence is significantly higher among non-Hispanic White individuals compared to non-Hispanic Black or Asian/Pacific Islander individuals.
Unfortunately, skin cancer in individuals with darker skin tones is often diagnosed at later stages, making it more challenging to treat effectively. Studies have shown that patients with darker skin tones have lower survival rates for melanoma compared to those with lighter skin tones.
It is important to note that skin cancer can occur in areas not typically exposed to the sun in individuals with darker skin, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, inside of the mouth, and even under the nails.
Skin cancer is a condition that can develop in individuals of all ages, races, and nationalities. Surprisingly, it can also occur in unexpected areas of the body. Some of these less commonly checked areas include the eyelids, scalp, lips, groin, hands, and feet.
The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of protecting the skin from UV light exposure to prevent skin cancer. This includes avoiding indoor tanning beds and taking outdoor precautions such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing (long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses), and applying broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on exposed skin.
It is also crucial for individuals at higher risk, including those with a personal or family history of skin cancer, to conduct regular skin self-exams. If any unusual spots, changes, itching, or bleeding are noticed, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist for further evaluation. Schedule a skin cancer screening exam with us today!
