Skin Cancer Awareness: Understanding, Identifying, Preventing & Treating
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with an estimated 9,500 patients diagnosed daily, and is caused by excessive exposure to harmful UV rays. Although lighter skin colors are more prone to skin cancer, all skin colors can develop skin cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is typically curable when it’s found and treated early.
Identifying Skin Cancer
Causing thousands of deaths annually, the most serious form of skin cancer is melanoma. To identify, use the ABCDEs (below) and check your nails for unusual nail characteristics, such as dark streaks, dark skin around your nail, bumps underneath the nail, or nail splitting or lifting.
A: Asymmetry – Half of the spot is unlike the other half.
B: Border – The spot’s border is irregular, undefined, or scalloped.
C: Color – The color of the spot varies.
D: Diameter – Melanoma spots are usually larger than 6 millimeters but can be smaller.
E: Evolving – The spot looks different from others or is changing in size, shape, or color.
Preventing Skin Cancer
You can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer by protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. The most effective ways are to (1) find shade, (2) wear protective clothing, and (3) use water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. Your skin is exposed to the sun even when you remain inside your home or are in your car because the UV rays penetrate the windows. It is also recommended that you perform skin checks yourself, as well as maintain annual skin checks with a dermatologist.
Treating Skin Cancer
Remember that early detection of skin cancer is key to effective treatment – it can save your life! Recommended treatments vary according to the stage of cancer. Adequate treatments for earlier stages include surgery – Excision or Mohs surgery (for cancer spots on the head, neck, hand). More intense treatments may include Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, Immunotherapy, Adoptive T-Cell Therapy, and others. Your dermatologist will diagnose your individual situation and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
We encourage you to take skin cancer seriously – take the preventative steps and continue to check your skin for new, changing, or unusual spots. Call our office at Dermatology of North Asheville at (828) 253-2533 today to schedule your annual skin check.
