Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. It accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. More than 3.5 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed in this country each year. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, will account for more than 76,000 cases of skin cancer in 2012. Fortunately, all skin cancers are highly treatable if found early. Before you go out to soak up the rays this summer, keep these risk factors and preventative measures in mind.
Risk factors include:
- Unprotected and/or excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (sunlight or tanning booths) Pale complexion (difficulty tanning, easily sunburned, natural red or blond hair color)
- Occupational exposures to coal tar, pitch, creosote, arsenic compounds, or radium
- You or other members of your family have had skin cancers
- Multiple or unusual moles
- Severe sunburns in the past
The best ways to lower your risk of skin cancer are to avoid long exposure to intense sunlight and practice sun safety. You can still exercise and enjoy the outdoors while using sun safety at the same time. Here are some ways to play it safe in the sun:
- Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Seek shade: Look for shade, especially in the middle of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest. Practice the shadow rule and teach it to children. If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
- Slip on a shirt: Cover up with protective clothing to guard as much skin as possible when you are out in the sun. Choose comfortable clothes made of tightly woven fabrics that you cannot see through when held up to a light.
- Slop on sunscreen: Use sunscreen and lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen (about a palmful) and reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, toweling dry, or sweating. Use sunscreen even on hazy or overcast days.
Contact Integra Urgent Care
If you believe you may be experiencing signs of skin cancer or want to learn more about ways to prevent it, contact Integra Urgent Care today. Integra offers diagnostic services and our helpful medical professionals are here to help. Our urgent care clinics are conveniently located in various places in Dallas, such as Grand Prairie, Weatherford, and Las Colinas.