Doctor, what do I need to know about skin cancer? (Part two)
Editor’s note: Last month Dr. Sidhu explained the different types of skin cancer and the risks of being diagnosed with melanoma. This month he focuses on early detection, treatment and prevention.
Recognition of changes in the skin is the best way to detect early melanoma. Melanoma generally begins as a mottled, light brown to black flat blemish with irregular borders. The blemish is usually at least one-quarter inch in size. It may turn shades of red, blue or white, crust on the surface and bleed. They most frequently appear on the upper back, torso, lower legs, head and neck. A changing mole, a new mole, or a mole that is different or “ugly” or begins to grow requires prompt medical attention.
If you notice a mole on your skin, you should follow the simple “ABCD” rule put forth by the American Academy of Dermatology, which outlines the warning signs of melanoma:
- Asymmetry - One half does not match the other half.
- Border irregularity - The edges are ragged, notched or blurred.
- Color - The pigmentation is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown or black are present. Dashes of red, white and blue add to the mottled appearance.
- Diameter - While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm in diameter when diagnosed, they can be smaller. If you notice a mole different from others, or that changes, itches or bleeds even if it is smaller than 6mm, you should see a dermatologist.
The American Academy of Dermatology urges everyone to examine his or her skin regularly. This means looking over your entire body including your back, your scalp, the soles of your feet, between your toes and the palms of your hands. If there are any changes in the size, color, shape or texture of a mole, the development of a new mole, or any other unusual changes in the skin, see your dermatologist immediately.
Because overexposure to ultraviolet light is thought to be a primary cause of many skin cancers, dermatologists recommend the following precautions:
- Avoid “peak” sunlight hours - 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. - when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
- Seek shade whenever possible
- Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat.
- Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. Try and find sunscreens containing either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These physical blockers have a broad range of protection covering both the UVA and UVB spectrum of light. Unfortunately, the SPF factor is only a gauge of UVB protection and not UVA protection. Thus it is imperative to understand that UVA has a secondary role in skin cancer formation and the SPF system does not address this form of radiation. So take a closer look at your sunscreen.
Fortunately we have many new technologies available to treat photodamage and prevent new skin cancer formation. Talk to your local dermasurgeon about the many options available.