Early Detection and Prevention of Melanoma: How to Protect Your Skin

Melanoma is a life-threatening skin cancer that develops when skin cells producing melanocytes or pigmented cells grow uncontrollably and form tumors. It can be fatal if not detected early and treated promptly. Early detection is vital in preventing cancer from spreading to your body and protecting your skin. 

Risks and Causes of Melanoma

Various environmental and genetic factors contribute to skin cancer. Individuals with green or blue eyes, red and blond hair, and a fair complexion are more susceptible to skin cancer.

Exposure to various sources of UV radiation—such as the sun and tanning beds—increases your chances of developing skin cancer. People with a family history of skin cancer, who have had it before, or who have a weak immune system also have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

One of the primary causes of skin cancer is exposure to UV radiation. This makes it vital to reduce your risk by protecting your skin from the sun. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours, anytime from 9 in the morning to 4 in the evening. You can also seek shade when outdoors. You can stay under a structure, umbrellas, or a tree.

The clothes your wear also matter. Keep your skin safe from the sun by wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, pants, or long-sleeved shirts. 

Using a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a physical clock (like zinc oxide and or/ titanium dioxide) is also ideal. Ensure it has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 and above. Apply it to all parts of your skin that are exposed 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Reapply it every two hours or after you sweat or swim.

Examine Yourself for Skin Cancer

It is vital to perform regular skin self-examination to check if your skin shows unusual changes. The ideal time for it is after you take a bath or shower when your skin is dry and clean.

Do the self-examination using a handheld or full-length mirror in a well-lit room. Doing so will help you check the areas that are difficult to see. Check if you have new growths or moles. It is also vital to check if the existing moles show any changes.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma

You can identify suspicious moles by using the ABCDEs:
 

• Asymmetry - One half of the mole you see differs from the other half.

• Border - The mole's border is irregular, notched, and scalloped.

• Color - The mole color is uneven with diverse colors such as black, brown, or other colors.

• Diameter - The mole diameter is larger than that of a pencil eraser (greater than 6 mm).

• Evolution - The mole changes gradually in color, shape, or size.

It is vital to see your dermatologist immediately if you see changes in your skin. Doing so will help them conduct a skin biopsy.

Importance of Early Detection and Prompt Treatment
 

You can prevent skin cancer from spreading and affecting other parts of your body through early detection. It helps with prompt treatment, especially during the early stages when it is highly treatable.

Melanoma can spread to the rest of your body if untreated. It also becomes difficult to treat. The best way to prevent it and detect early signs is through regular self-examinations, early sign awareness, and sun protection. 

See a dermatologist for a skin biopsy if you notice changes in your skin. They can help diagnose if you have skin cancer and determine the ideal treatment for your condition. 

For more about skin cancer, visit Green Dermatology & Cosmetic Center at our office in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Call 954-799-9600 to book an appointment today.

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