Although it is impossible to completely
eliminate the possibility of skin
cancer, the risk of developing such
a cancer can be reduced significantly
with the following steps:
reducing exposure to ultraviolet
(UV) radiation, especially in early
years
avoiding sunburns
avoiding sun exposure during the
day (usually from 10 AM to 3 PM),
when the sun is highest in the sky
wearing protective clothing (long
sleeves and hats) when outdoors
using a broad-spectrum sunscreen
that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation
use SPF sun block of at least
30
reapply sun block every 2 hours
and after swimming
Although it is generally accepted
that UV exposure is the greatest
risk factor in melanoma development,
some skeptics say that there is
no proven data that links moderate
sun exposure with the appearance
of melanoma.
There are a variety of different
skin cancer symptoms. These include
sores or changes in the skin that
do not heal, ulcers in the skin, discoloration,
and changes in existing moles.
Basal cell carcinoma usually looks
like a raised, smooth, pearly bump
on the sun-exposed skin of the head,
neck or shoulders. Sometimes small
blood vessels can be seen within the
tumor. Crusting and bleeding in the
center of the tumor frequently develops.
It is often mistaken for a sore that
does not heal.
Squamous cell carcinoma is commonly
a red, scaling, thickened patch on
sun-exposed skin. Ulceration and bleeding
may occur. When SCC is not treated,
it may develop into a large mass.
Most melanomas are brown to black
looking lesions. Signs that might
indicate a malignant melanoma include
change in size, shape, color or elevation
of a mole. The appearance of a new
mole during adulthood, or new pain,
itching, ulceration or bleeding of
an existing mole should be checked.
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