Skin cancer risk has gradually increased as more ultraviolet radiation finds its way into the atmosphere. Most cases of skin cancer are considered to be sun related. Skin cancer is generally divided into several types which commonly affect a greater number of people.

Types of skin cancer

Basal cell carcinoma is known as the most common type of skin cancer. It affects individuals with a family history of the disease, excessive exposure to UV light as well as being exposed to some carcinogenic chemicals such as arsenic. This type of skin cancer is rarely life threatening but can lead to serious disfigurement of the areas it affects if left untreated.

There is also the squamous cell carcinoma. Like basal cell carcinoma, it is considered as a non-melanoma form of skin cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancers are unlikely to metastasize or spread to other parts of the body.

The most dangerous type of skin cancer is malignant melanoma, a rarer form of cancer but accounts for a majority of skin cancer deaths. This type of cancer may be caused either by a family history of the disease and excessive exposure to UV light, or both.

How to prevent skin cancer?

Treatment for skin cancer, especially malignant melanoma, will depend on how early it is diagnosed. But prevention, aside from treatment may be the best way to combat skin cancers. As most skin cancers that develop are sun-related, keeping the skin protected from the harmful rays of the sun may be the most effective way of preventing skin cancers.

Reducing exposure to the sun’s rays, especially when it is at its strongest, may be able to help a lot in preventing skin cancer. The sun usually shines at its strongest between 11 am and 4 pm.

This is the time when the UV rays of the sun are also at its strongest. Be aware of these times even on cloudy days. About 80 percent of UV light may be able to penetrate some types of clouds, fog or even mist. It is not impossible for one to get sunburn even on a cloudy day.

When you do have to go out, try to provide adequate protection for your skin. You can shade your skin from the harmful rays of the sun by seeking shade under trees or bringing your own umbrella when you go out.

You can also wear clothing that offer cover for your exposed arms or legs. Make sure that you wear clothing that has tight weaving in order to prevent UV light from penetrating through them.

Another way to protect the skin from the sun’s rays is by using sun screens when going out. Make sure that you use sunscreens with an SPF level of 15 or more and contain both UV-A and UV-B protection.

Remember to apply the sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you venture out into the open and try to reapply every couple of hours if you are working or playing.

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Skin plays a vital role in keeping you healthy. It is the largest organ in your body and it protects you from potential problems caused by dehydration, the sun, bacterial infections, and pollution. However, the skin has its limits when it comes to protecting us. Various factors can cause damage that cannot be repaired, and this may lead to skin cancer.

Most people can prevent skin cancer by avoiding overexposure to the sun and other sources of ultraviolet light like tanning lamps. Here are some simple but important steps you should take in reducing the risk of skin cancer.

Avoid UV rays

We do not encourage you to hide out from the sun completely, but it is very important to protect your skin against the harsh UV rays. Select shaded areas when performing outdoor activities.

If you have to spend long periods in the sun, wear a broad-brimmed hat and tight-weave clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and gloves. Avoid overexposing yourself to the sun without protection, especially between 11:00 am and 4:00 p.m. during summer months.

Also, never let your infants or young children to play or sleep in the sun in a playpen, stroller, or carriage. Never let your youngsters stay in the sun for long periods, even when wearing sunscreen.

Apply sunscreen

Use sunscreen lotion with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. Make sure that the product can protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Apply the lotion liberally to exposed skin 15 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and re-apply the product 15 to 30 minutes after being exposed to the sun.
You should also re-apply sunscreen on your skin after vigorous activities that could remove the product, like swimming, toweling, or excessive sweating.

Get your children and teenagers used to wearing sunscreen lotion, paying particular attention to the areas that are most exposed such as the face, lips, ears, neck, shoulders, back, knees, and the tops of their feet. Remind them of its importance to their skin.

Avoid tanning lamps

Exposing yourself to tanning lamps can actually aggravate your risks as the lamps contain UV rays and it is exposed much closer to your skin. If you want to have a quick tan, applying your body with a bronzer or tanning spray can do.

Checking your medication

Be aware that certain medicines can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Consult your physician or pharmacist if you have questions about your medication.

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