Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 3.5 million cases are diagnosed annually. However, taking the necessary preventive measures can avert most cases. One of the most important steps in this prevention is the use of sunblock. Properly using sunblock can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Definition
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells. The three major types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Most often, skin cancer is the result of prolonged exposure to sunlight. Limiting your exposure to sunlight and regularly checking your skin for any changes can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Types
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. Patients develop a pearly or waxy bump, or a flat brown or flesh-colored scar-like lesion. It usually develops on sun-exposed areas and rarely spreads, but it can invade surrounding tissue. Squamous cell carcinoma also develops on sun-exposed areas. Here, patients will develop a firm, red nodule or flat, scaly lesion. Unlike basal cell, squamous cell carcinoma may spread to other parts of the body.
Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, even areas that have not been exposed to sunlight. Although it is the least common, it is the most serious type of skin cancer. Melanoma develops in your melanocytes, the cells that produce skin color. It usually appears as a large brownish spot with darker speckles, or a mole that has changed size, color, feel or shape.
Prevention
Most skin cancers are preventable. It is important to take the proper steps in order to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Avoid the sun during the middle of the day when its rays are the strongest. If you are in the sun, wear long-sleeved and long-legged clothing. In addition, check your body consistently for any suspicious spots or lesions. Early detection of any abnormalities improves your chances of successful treatment.
Sunblock
Sunscreen is an important tool for skin protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a sunblock with at least an SPF 15. You should apply one ounce of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going in the sun, and reapply every two hours.
It is important to remember that sunscreen alone will not prevent skin cancers. Sunblocks do not filter out all harmful UV rays, including the radiation that leads to melanoma.
Treatment
Treatment for skin cancer varies depending on the size, type, depth and location of the cancerous lesion. The lesion will be removed through surgery, freezing, laser therapy, biopsy or another method. If the cancer has spread, you may require radiation or chemotherapy.
References
- The Skin Cancer Foundation: Skin Cancer Facts
- The Skin Cancer Foundation: Guidelines
- MayoClinic.com: Skin Cancer - Definition
- University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center: Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center: Melanoma
