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Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. By adhering to the latest research findings and screening guidelines, we can effectively prevent certain types of skin cancers.

Preventing Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by the time they reach age 70.

Most skin cancers occur after repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The sun's rays damage skin cells (squamous cells, basal cells, and melanocytes). About 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers, which includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are associated with exposure to the sun’s rays. Even though skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and around the world, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Several steps can be taken. These include:

  • Wear sunscreen. When you are out in the sun, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially if you are staying active —exercising or swimming, for example.
  • Protect yourself from the sun. Wear a wide brim hat that shields your face, neck and shoulders, wear sunglasses that shield your eyes, wear sun-protective clothing that covers your arms and legs, and seek out the shade whenever possible.
  • Avoid peak sun times. In the U.S., UV rays are at their strongest between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Take added measures to protect your skin if you are outside during these times.
  • Say ‘no’ to indoor tanning. Indoor tanning beds, booths and sun lamps expose people to high levels of UV radiation. Over time, this repeated exposure can cause skin cancer and cataracts.

Skin Cancer Risk Factors

While protecting yourself from ultraviolet rays can reduce your chances of developing skin cancer, there are still some important cancer risk factors to be aware of including:

  • Personal history of skin cancer
  • Family history of skin cancer
  • Fair skin
  • Blue or green eyes
  • Blond or red hair
  • Skin that burns or freckles easily
  • A lot of moles
  • Older age
  • More than five sunburns in your lifetime
  • Exposure to tanning beds
  • Taking medications that suppress the immune system

The ABCDEs of Skin Cancer: Signs and Symptoms

Skin cancer typically appears as changes in your skin. You may notice a spot that looks or feels different from your other spots. One way to remember some of the worrisome signs of melanoma are ABCDEs:

  • A (Asymmetrical) — Does the mole have an irregular shape to it?
  • B (Border) — Does the mole have an irregular or jagged looking border?
  • C (Color) — Is the color uneven or suspicious looking?
  • D (Diameter) — Is the mole larger than the size of a pea?
  • E (Evolving) — Has the mole changed in any way?

If you notice any changes in your skin, contact your doctor right away.