To quote the World Cancer Research Fund: “Skin cancer is the 17th most common cancer worldwide. It is the 14th most common cancer in men and the 14th most common cancer in women.” this is a truly remarkable set of statistics and for most folks who tend not to take this type of cancer too seriously, ought to be a bit of a wake-up call. The one saving grace about this form of cancer is that with early detection, you can get the tumor removed and dramatically reduce the chances of it spreading and causing you serious problems that will almost always lead to death. In this post, we are taking a look at how spending some time at regular intervals to look over your body and check for anything untoward and out of place could end up saving your life. If you do see anything potentially problematic, you shouldn’t hesitate to visit your local doctor or dermatologist for further investigation.
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Routine Skin Examinations Catch Early Signs Of Skin Cancer Effectively
Skin cancer is in many ways similar to most other types of cancers in that regularly checking yourself for signs can ensure prompt care and increase your chance of survival. However, where it differs is that it is relatively more straightforward to “see” any signs compared with other types because they exist on the outside of your body rather than inside. Although you really ought to check yourself, it’s also highly advised to visit a professional dermatologist once in a while for them to perform advanced screening such as 3d skin imaging tests and other visual examinations based on their expertise. This is prudent regardless of the climate you live in, but it is especially vital for those living in climates more prone to extreme UV exposure.
Recognize Changes In Moles Or Skin Texture For Swift Action
Most instances of skin cancer tend to manifest as irregular moles that have either popped up out of nowhere or already exist but show signs of change (size, color, shape, etc). When you learn to recognize the various signs, you will be better prepared to know when to visit the doctor and when you might not need to. However, it’s worth noting that if you even have the slightest hint that something is awry, you should never hesitate to book an appointment with your local clinic and have them check it out. You never know, and by taking this proactive step, you could save your life.
Use The ABCDE Method To Evaluate Moles
To follow up on the previous point, plenty of publications state that you ought to recognize the signs of dangerous moles, but what does this mean in reality? Not everyone has the advantage of being a trained dermatologist, so what are we actually looking out for in this regard?
- Asymmetry: If a mole is asymmetrical, which is to say it isn’t symmetrical, then this could be a warning sign that it could be melanoma. This is because the asymmetry could indicate a disorganized growth pattern of cancerous cells. This isn’t always the case, but as with the other tips in the ABCDE method, it’s always, always better to be safe than sorry.
- Border: Similarly to asymmetry, if a mole’s border has ragged, blurred, or otherwise irregular edges, it could indicate that it is still growing and, thus, might be cancerous.
- Color: A surefire sign that something isn’t quite right is that the color is uneven and includes shades of black, brown, tan, red, or blue.
- Diameter: If the mole is larger than 6 millimeters, you ought to get it checked out. Cancerous moles can certainly be smaller; if the smaller ones exhibit other signs, you should also check them.
- Evolving: If you notice a mole changing in all of the ways previously mentioned or even in ways that aren’t listed, seek medical attention.
Consider Genetics, Sun Exposure, And Skin Type To Assess Your Skin Cancer Risk
Skin cancer is most famous for being caused by high UV exposure, but other factors can contribute to its manifestation. If you have a family history of members who have contracted skin cancer over the ages, you may be more genetically predisposed to it yourself. If this is the case, then you need to take far more precautions than usual to protect yourself. This means never leaving the house without applying high-SPF sunscreen, wearing a hat and long sleeves when possible, and making extra efforts to visit a dermatologist more frequently than usual. This also applies if you have fair skin since it has less melanin and is less capable of defending itself from intense sun.
Learn Proper Self-Examination Techniques To Monitor Skin Changes Consistently
If you’re unable to make frequent visits to your doctor or simply cannot afford the not-insignificant expenses of doing so, you need to learn self-examination techniques so you can perform the usual checks yourself. The previously mentioned ABCDE method is a great start, but in order to check if your moles have changed shape according to this criteria, you need to set up dedicated times to check. You can make some time, perhaps once per week, to look over your body and also have someone else check your back to see if you notice anything new or any changes in your existing condition.
Daily Sunscreen Application And Adequate Clothing Can Significantly Lower The Risk Of Developing Skin Cancer
In reality, you should never leave the house without a liberal coating of sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 or higher, even during cloudy days. However, for most, this might be a bit overkill to slather your entire body, mainly if you primarily work indoors and live in areas with less sunlight. Regardless, you ought to make an effort to cover the parts of your skin that will be exposed, such as your face, so that you at least have the minimum amount of protection (which is even more vital if you take beach vacations). Outside of sunscreen, make sure you dress appropriately, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants over your arms and legs when heading outside into the sun.
Skin cancer never usually instills the same fear into most folks compared with the other more prominent types, but it can be just as deadly if left unchecked. The difference is that it is usually easier to spot and cure as long as you know what to look for.
