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Summer is synonymous with fun in the sun. But while the sun’s rays may keep you warm and lift your spirits,
exposure to them also can lead to skin cancer. Left untreated, skin cancer can cause disfigurement. Melanoma--the most serious form of skin cancer--can
spread to the internal organs and lead to death.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but there is some good news: skin cancer,
including melanoma, is highly treatable when detected early and is largely prevent able.
The Skin Cancer Foundation points out that “skin is a good record keeper.” Sun damage is cumulative, and too
much exposure to the sun during childhood can put you at risk of skin cancer later in life.
The main culprit in the onset of skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Help reduce your family’s
risk for skin cancer by following recommendations from The Skin Cancer Foundation and the American Academy of Dermatology:
- Do keep children under age 6 months out of the sun entirely.
When outdoors, keep babies in the shade by using an umbrella, carriage hood or canopy.
- Don’t use sunscreen on infants under age 6 months.
- Do use a sunscreen of at least SPF 15 on all exposed areas of
the body.
- Don’t forget hands, ears, nose, lips and feet. Apply sunscreen
a half-hour before you head outdoors.
- Do reapply sunscreen every two hours--more often if you go
swimming or sweat a lot.
- Don’t spend extended time outdoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
The sun is most intense during this time.
- Do use zinc oxide on your nose and lips for extra protection.
- Don’t ever use tanning oil or baby oil. These products
actually make the skin more susceptible to the sun’s burning rays
- Don’t be fooled by the overcast day. The sun’s damaging rays
can filter through clouds and haze.
- Don’t use sunlamps or tanning booths. Artificial sources of UV
radiation also contribute to skin cancer.
- Do wear clothing made of tightly woven fabrics. Unbleached
cotton and cotton twill are good bets. Stay away from fabrics that allow light through, including broad weaves such as crepes and loosely woven straw
hats. Wear dark-colored clothing, which absorbs UV rays better than light-colored garb.
- Don’t rely on wet T-shirts for protection against sunburn.
Garments lose substantial sun protection power when wet.
- Do wear a hat with an all-around brim measuring at least three
inches and sunglasses to protect your eyes from cataracts.
The best way to beat melanoma is to catch it early. Learn these ABCDs of melanoma and check your skin for moles
often:
| A. |
Asymmetry: One half of a mole is different from the other. |
| B. |
Border: Edges of mole are irregular--ragged, blurred or notched. |
| C. |
Color: Pigmentation of mole is varied and may be brown and black with red, white or blue creating a
mottled appearance. |
| D. |
Diameter: Width is greater than six millimeters--about the size of a pencil eraser. Also look for
an increase in the size of a mole.
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The Health Alliance continues to be a leader in cancer care using a
multidisciplinary approach in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention,
education and research of cancer. Our diverse health care team includes
physicians and specialists in all areas of cancer care including medical
oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, gynecological oncology,
as well as nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists,
nutritionists, psychologists and many others. In addition, Health Alliance
physicians and  world-renowned cancer researchers in our facilities offer
internationally recognized services in neuro-oncology, head and neck
oncology, stem cell transplantation and clinical cancer research. The
Health Alliance offers a holistic approach to cancer care not only
recognizing the physical needs of our patients, but also recognizing and
supporting the emotional and spiritual needs of them and their families.
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If you’d like more information on cancer
care, including information about cancer treatment, screening, prevention, supportive care
and clinical trials, please contact one of our facilities.
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