How will you take care of your skin this summer?
That question might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you're making summer plans, but it's an important consideration.
Why? Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. And the American Academy of Dermatology estimates that “one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.”
The good news? Skin cancer is also the most preventable type of cancer.
Wondering what exactly causes skin cancer, what warning signs to look for, or how to decrease your risks? You’ve come to the right place.
Here are the facts on skin cancer causes, symptoms, and prevention techniques. Plus, when it’s time to see the doctor.
Skin cancer occurs when your skin cells begin to mutate and grow abnormally.
Skin cancer is usually caused by overexposure to UV rays, either outside or at tanning beds.
Skin cancer can occasionally develop on skin that is not normally exposed to UV light. Causes may include overexposure to x-rays, “exposure to toxic substances or having a condition that weakens your immune system,” according to the Mayo Clinic.
How do you know if you have skin cancer?
Different types of skin cancer can show up in different ways.
Always let your doctor know if you notice any abnormalities on your skin.
Skin cancer is diagnosed by taking a biopsy of the skin.
To catch skin cancer early, you should schedule regular skin exams. These can often be incorporated into your regular health check-up.
Remember, you know your body best, so let your doctor know if there’s a specific spot that’s been bothering you, like a mole or sunspot.
Your doctor may also recommend monthly self-exams, which can help you catch abnormalities early.
There are many things you can do to decrease your chances of getting skin cancer. The biggest thing you can do? Limit your exposure to UV rays. Here’s how.
Even if you’re careful about your UV light exposure, there’s still a chance you may develop skin cancer. To catch it early, it’s important to schedule annual skin exams with a professional, such as your Family Medicine physician.
Remember, skin cancer is highly preventable and treatable.
Get the care you need - request an appointment today!