Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer there is, but it is also one of the most treatable. There are several things that contribute to the development of skin cancer; by learning how to prevent skin cancer throughout your lifetime, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting the disease.
Avoid the sun
The rays from the sun that make it to the earth's surface contain ultraviolet rays, both A and B. These rays penetrate the skin and cause damage to cells. The sun's rays are strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so do prolonged outdoor activities either before or after that time. Also, don't count on the clouds providing protection because nearly 75 percent of harmful UV rays can penetrate cloud cover.
Cover up
When you are in the sun, make sure that your skin is protected. Wear long sleeved, tightly knit fabrics and choose a wide brimmed hat to protect delicate skin on the face, ears and neck. Use sun block with a high SPF number and reapply it throughout the day, especially when swimming or sweating hard. Lips can be protected with lip balm that contains sun block and don't forget the sunglasses to protect the delicate eye tissues.
Indoor tanning
Tanning beds and sun lamps deliver UV rays, much like the sun. While the time and exposure can be more easily controlled through tanning beds, the potential for abuse is high for people desiring a convenient and long lasting tan. Beware of tanning salons that claim their tanning beds use "harmless" UV-A rays. The truth is that both A and B rays cause skin damage, but UV-A rays take a little longer to affect the skin.
Self-examination
You can check your body for skin abnormalities before they have a chance to turn cancerous. Performing self-examinations is one of the best methods of early skin cancer detection. Using a full-length mirror along with a smaller hand-held mirror, you can check out moles, birthmarks and any new blemishes that appear. A skin self exam should include every inch of the body, from the scalp to the bottom of the feet. If you notice any abnormalities or changes in existing body marks, notify your doctor for a further examination.
 | When skin cancer is diagnoses, details and technical terms can leave a patient or loved one in the dark. The stages of melanoma are defined by the size of the tumor and how far the cancer has spread. |
 | Learn to recognize early signs of skin cancer so you can get it treated early. With more than 1 million new cases each year, skin cancer is the leading form of cancer in the United States. |
Learning how to prevent skin cancer requires accepting the responsibility of taking care of your skin and your health every single day. Whether the sun is shining or hiding behind clouds, paying attention to skin health is crucial. |
What does skin cancer look like? No one wants to spot a potential sign of skin cancer on her body, but it is a good idea to be prepared, just in case. If you see any of these potential skin cancer red flags, it's time to see a doctor. |
Where does skin cancer occur? Skin cancer can pop up anywhere on the skin of your body. Learn how to inspect your face, back, arms and other parts of your body and prevent skin cancer from developing without detection. |
