Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Recommendations for Prevention
Posted: Friday, May 29, 2020
In commemorating May as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the Fox Chase Cancer Center reviewed the early signs of skin cancer. Clinicians also offered preventive tips for patients to reduce the incidence of skin cancer from the sun. “When skin cancer is caught early, more treatment options are available, and most skin cancers are often curable,” advised Jeffrey Farma, MD, FACS, of Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia.
A new or suspicious spot could be a sign of skin cancer. Fox Chase reviewed the ABCDE rule in identifying potentially malignant moles.
- Asymmetry: Melanoma lesions are often asymmetric, and benign moles are usually symmetric.
- Border: Melanoma lesions usually have irregular borders that are difficult to define, and noncancerous moles usually have smooth borders.
- Color: A mole with more than one color or the uneven distribution of color may be a warning sign of melanoma. Benign moles are usually a single shade of brown or tan.
- Diameter: Melanoma lesions are often larger than 6 mm in diameter.
- Evolution: Evolution means a mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
About 5.4 million Americans are diagnosed each year with basal and squamous cell skin cancers, Fox Chase reported. To lower the risk of skin cancer, people are advised to avoid or limit UV radiation exposure. Since UV rays are strongest between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, finding shade and protecting vulnerable areas such as the face, scalp, and ears with SPF 30 or higher sunscreen is recommended. Tanning beds, booths, and sunlamps have been associated with melanoma and should always be avoided.
If a change [in skin markings] does occur, patients should see a doctor as soon as possible, according to Dr. Farma. Skin should be checked regularly and examined annually by a doctor or dermatologist for signs of skin cancer.
