It’s May, which means it’s time to prioritize your skin this Skin Cancer Awareness Month. This annual observance allows health organizations and advocates to raise awareness about skin cancer’s dangers and the importance of prevention and early detection. Skin cancer is the most common type in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed annually. Fortunately, skin cancer is highly preventable. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Power of Prevention
Spring is in full bloom, and along with it comes the sun. Protecting your skin from the sun’s powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays is the most effective way to prevent skin cancer. However, here is a list of precautions you should take to help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:
- Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation, damaging your skin and unnecessarily increasing your risk of skin cancer.
- Check your medication: Certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays, including antibiotics, diuretics, and some antidepressants. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your medications and their potential sun sensitivity.
- Check your skin: Regularly check your skin for any changes, such as new moles or growths or changes in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole. If you notice anything suspicious, you should meet with a dermatologist immediately.
- Seek shade: Stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when UV rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and pants if you’re outside.
- Use sunscreen: Last but certainly not least, be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands. Reapply every two hours or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Early Detection = More Effective Treatment
When it comes to skin cancer, timing is everything. Early detection is vital in treating skin cancer successfully. If caught early, the condition is highly treatable, with a high success rate for cured patients. We advise meeting with a dermatologist if you notice any of these signs or have any concerns about your skin. Here at Texas Dermatology, we specialize in skin cancer treatment and offer skin cancer removal for children, teenagers, and adults alike. Early detection often allows us to use less invasive treatments, which come with fewer risks and complications compared to more advanced stages of skin cancer.
Our focus is on providing effective skin cancer removal techniques that preserve the aesthetics of the area being treated. We understand that maintaining your appearance is important. However, so is ensuring that all cancerous cells are safely and effectively removed. That’s why we offer superficial radiation therapy (SRT), a non-invasive procedure that produces less scarring compared to other treatments for non-melanoma skin cancer. Our team of professionals has extensive experience in SRT and can ensure that you receive the best care possible. Trust us to help you on your journey to better skin health.
While skin cancer is a severe condition, it’s also highly preventable and treatable. Protecting your skin from the sun and watching for any changes can reduce your risk and catch it before it advances. Prioritize your skin this Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and all year, aim to serve the skin that serves you!
At Texas Dermatology, we are committed to ensuring your skin stays healthy and cancer-free. Our team of experienced dermatologists offers comprehensive skin exams to detect any issues. Don’t put your skin health on hold; schedule your exam today by visiting our website or contacting us at (210) 829-5180 and take the first step towards protection!
Resources:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/skin-cancer.html
https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/ https://www.americancancerfund.org/cancer-types/skin-cancer/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwr82iBhCuARIsAO0EAZyXcaBgyYr74FOBVQSKgcdXsu7yQTPRZdn-Wdqu_0gntVhHZ_cxvJMaAjO1EALw_wcB
