Skin cancer represents about half of all cancers in the United States. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas, the most common skin cancers, are curable and generally do not spread to other parts of the body. However, melanoma poses more danger and can be life-threatening.
Skin cancer rates are rising, yet most cases can be avoided through vigilance and preventive measures.
Everyone is at Risk
While people with light-toned skin are more prone to sunburns and sun damage, anyone—even dark-skinned people—can get skin cancer. There is no such thing as a “healthy tan.” Tanning indicates sun-damaged skin that has produced more melanin pigment in a protective response to harmful ultraviolet (UV) light.
Skin cancer affects all ages, with melanoma more likely to appear in young people. Any of the following factors may increase the risk for skin cancer:
- Fair skin, blue or green eyes, blond, red or light brown hair, and skin that freckles or sunburns easily
- Lots of past sunburns
- A family history of skin cancer
- Living or vacationing in a sunny or high-altitude climate
- Previous treatment for skin cancer or precancerous lesions
- Intense or prolonged sun exposure
- A large number of moles
- A compromised immune system (for instance, people living with HIV/AIDS or those who have had organ transplants)
- Taking medications than can increase sun sensitivity (such as oral contraceptives, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], and certain antibiotics, sulfa drugs, and antidepressants)
Taking Precautions
National surveys report that only 56% of adults take steps to protect themselves from the sun.
No one can afford to be complacent: each year, approximately 1 million new cases of basal and squamous cell cancers are diagnosed, and about 60,000 cases of melanoma. According to a study published in the September 3, 2008 Journal of the National Cancer Institute, evidence suggests that people who develop non-melanoma skin cancer have twice the risk of getting other types of cancer in later years than people who never had the disease.
Protecting your skin from dangerous UV rays is the best thing you can do to minimize chances of developing skin cancer. Here are some safeguards to adopt:
• Slather on Sunscreen. To protect against ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays—the wavelengths most threatening to the skin—choose a broad-spectrum product that is water resistant and has a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 (the higher the SPF, the more protection against UVB rays). Sunscreens containing avobenzone, ecamsule, zinc oxide or titanium oxide are better at blocking out UVB and most UVA rays. Apply liberally—even when it’s cloudy or overcast—to all exposed areas, making sure to include the ears, lips, hands, and back of the neck. To give sunscreen time to soak in, apply 20 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’ve been sweating or swimming. Read labels; some cosmetics contain sunscreens, but if they don’t you will need additional protection. Use sunscreen all year. Check expiration dates because sunscreens can lose effectiveness after 2 to 3 years.
• Stay Covered. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to shield arms and legs from the sun. Darker colors offer more protection than lighter colors, and tighter weaves are better than looser ones. If clothing is flimsy or you can see light through the fabric, it won’t keep out UV rays. Swap the baseball cap for a broad-brimmed hat that shades the nose, ears, forehead and neck. Sun-protective clothing that is made with fabrics that have been coated to resist UV rays is now available for adults and children. Some boast labels with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).
• Wear Sunglasses. Protect your eyes from sun damage with wrap-around sunglasses that block nearly 100% of UVA and UVB rays (check labels; look for products approved by ANSI). Glasses that are considered “cosmetic” block only about 70% of UV rays, and those without labels specifically stating they provide UV protection may offer little or no protection. Also, don’t assume darker glasses are better; lenses get their protection from treatment with special chemicals.
• Avoid Peak Periods. Stay out of direct sunlight when UV rays are strongest, which is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (If your shadow is shorter than you, find shade.) Plan outdoor activities when the sun is less intense. Keep children who play outdoors in shady areas and be sure they’re well protected by sunscreen and clothing. Beaches, swimming spots, and ski slopes can be deceptive; although you may not feel the sun’s warmth, sand, water, and snow all reflect UV rays, increasing their intensity. Even if you will be staying in the shade if around water, it is important to still apply sunscreen to your entire body if you will be swimming; the water will reflect even while you are submerged. Additionally, hazy or overcast days can be deceptive; even though the sun may not seem to be out, the UV rays are still getting through. Also, be cognizant if driving or working near windows for long periods since some UVA rays may be able to get through.
• Keep Away From Tanning Salons. Tanning beds and sunlamps are not harmless; they emit UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to skin cancer. About 28 million people frequent tanning salons – many of them teenagers. Some states are starting to regulate usage by minors; for instance, prohibiting any person under the age of 16 from using indoor tanning facilities. The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Dermatology Association recommend prohibit access to tanning beds by anyone under the age of 18.
• Check Yourself Regularly. Examine your skin for moles, freckles, and growths, and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes to existing marks or the appearance of new and suspicious spots. Skin cancers often appear on areas exposed to the sun, but they also can develop in the genital area, on the scalp, and on the soles of the feet. Caught early, most skin cancers are highly treatable.
• Be Diligent. Make sun protection a year-round practice for the entire family. Avoid sunburns; cumulative sun damage can lead to skin cancer. Be particularly attentive to children and teens, since behaviors in childhood and adolescence may determine whether skin cancer shows up in subsequent years.