Made For Shade – Tips for Preventing Skin Cancer

Summer is here and that means weekends on the lake, days at the ballpark, and lots of time soaking in the sun. All the sun exposure, however, could have unintended consequences, including skin cancer. The surgeons at University Surgical Associates (USA) want you to be aware of this condition affecting people of all ages and take precautions to prevent it.

When most people hear skin cancer, melanoma may come to mind. Although it’s aggressive and serious, it’s not only type of skin cancer. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are more common skin cancers. They form in the middle and upper layers of the epidermis, or the outer layers of skin. They’re considered ‘non-melanoma’ and are usually found on arms, neck, face, and top of the head. Non-melanoma skin cancers can often be treated effectively when discovered early. The risk of recurrence for these types of skin cancer goes down after five years.

More Than Skin Deep

Melanoma, although less common than other skin cancers, is more aggressive. There are advanced risks with melanoma because of its potential to spread quickly to other parts of the body if not found early. What’s more, your risk for developing the condition greatly increases with sun exposure.

“Melanoma has a tendency to spread to other areas of the body – more so than non-melanoma cancers. It also has a higher potential for recurrence in the original cancer site,” says Alvaro Valle, M.D., surgical oncologist with University Surgical Associates. Melanoma is more aggressive than other skin cancers but can be treated effectively.

Who’s at Risk?

“People who have increased sun exposure like working outdoors or using tanning beds, are at higher risk for developing melanoma,” says Dr. Valle. “But if you have fair skin, a history of sunburns during childhood, a family history of unusual moles, or many small moles on the body, you need to take special precautions and check your skin regularly.” Children especially need UV protection to prevent future skin cancer risk.

Protect Your Skin

Minimizing skin exposure to intense UV rays is the best and first defense against skin cancer. An effective measure is simply seeking shade whenever you’re outdoors. The American Cancer Society offers a catchphrase to remember how to protect skin when you do spend time in the sun – Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap! Slip on protective clothing, such as long sleeve shirts with UV protection. Slop on sunscreen with an SPF 30 or above. Slap on a hat and wrap on sunglasses. Also consider applying lip balm with SPF protection, and minimizing time outdoors when the sun is strongest – from 10 am to 4 pm.

Effective Treatment

The most effective way to combat skin cancer is early detection. Surgeons at University Surgical Associates work closely with primary care physicians and dermatologists to address every aspect of skin cancer – from diagnosis to treatment to recovery.

“Surgery is very impactful in the treatment of melanoma,” says Dr. Valle. “In early stages, melanoma can be treated effectively by surgery while in advanced stages, we typically use a combination of surgery and immunotherapy.”

Talk with your dermatologist or primary care physician if you have any questions about moles or unusual areas on the skin when you conduct routine skin exams on yourself. If you suspect a problem, don’t wait. For more information, call 423-267-0466 or visit universitysurgical.com.