Skin Cancer: What Everyone Should Know

However, there are a lot of myths and misunderstandings that surround skin cancer, leaving people who are concerned about the health of their skin with more questions than answers.

Even if you are not personally affected by skin cancer, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the disease, so you can prevent it, and educate others on the facts. It is also important to keep an eye on your skin. If anything does look out of the ordinary, be sure to make an appointment with your dermatologist who can tell you if you have anything to worry about. Your lifestyle, family history and skin tone can all play a major role in the development of skin cancer, so you need to be vigilant.

Skin health starts with you and early detection. Here is what you should know about skin cancer:

Types of Skin Cancer:

• Basal & Squamous Cell Skin Cancer – While this type of skin cancer can appear anywhere on the body, it is most commonly found in areas that are more exposed to the sun. Basal & Squamous Cell Skin Cancer is much more common than other forms and, in most cases, can be treated easily.
• Melanoma Skin Cancer – This form of cancer is usually less common and occurs in the melanocytes, which are cells found in the skin’s top layer. Melanoma is more dangerous than other types because it can spread throughout the body much easier.

Be safe in the Sun

While there is nothing better than soaking up the sun’s rays, you should know you could be damaging your skin which could lead to the development of skin cancer. Be sure you are using a dermatologist-approved sunscreen daily to help prevent damage.

Stay Away from Tanning Salons

Something you should definitely know about skin cancer is the direct correlation between the disease and indoor tanning salons. According to the National Cancer Institute, just one tanning session can increase your chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 67% and basal cell carcinoma by 29%.

Other Causes of Skin Cancer

It isn’t just the sun that can wreak havoc on your skin. Did you know that people who smoke have a higher chance of developing skin cancer in their lifetime? It is also more likely to develop in people who have a family history of skin cancer. If you have family members who have been diagnosed with skin cancer, it is especially important for you to seek regular skin checks to help prevent the disease or catch it in its earliest stages.

The health of your skin is something that needs to be taken very seriously. Not only do you need to be vigilant about the condition of your skin, but you should also see your dermatologist who can tell you what you should know about skin cancer.