Skin Cancer Awareness

2007-08-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

By Susan Rutter

Ahh! Fun times in the summer sun!!! Summer and vacation means spending time outdoors in the pool, at the beach, playing tennis, golf, swimming and much more.

However, there is a huge downside to spending all that time in the sun. SKIN CANCER. I speak from experience and have a happy ending but my story could have ended very badly.

I grew up living in the country with a love of the outdoors and sports. Along with my two sisters I spent many hours a day outside riding horses, playing basketball and swimming in the many lakes that were near our childhood home.

This was way before any of us had heard of SPF anything. Forget #45. Where were numbers one, two or three? We did not have sunscreen or even zinc oxide. As a young child I would have welcomed zinc oxide as it is kind of like face paint for a carnival clown.

Needless to say I spent many, many hours, skin unprotected, frying and burning in the sun. This resulted in bright red skin and huge water blisters and a feverish feeling late at night. Followed days later by pealing and itching, layers and layers of skin falling away. Not fun and not a pretty picture. My mother tried her best to keep me in a hat and long sleeves but enough said.

Fast forward to my college years where I continued my love of sun and sports. I majored in Physical Education and became an Elementary P. E. teacher. In my early years of teaching few elementary schools had gymnasiums. Consequently, I continued to spend year after year outdoors, teaching, coaching track and playing sports recreationally.

One tricky thing about sunburn is that you cannot always see it happening and hours later, when it is much too late to prevent, you see the bright red results of a day in the sun. The same thing is true with skin cancer. You do notsee it happening at the time your skin is baking, blistering and pealing, but years and years later the result becomes apparent.

My trouble spot originated just above my upper lip, slightly left of center. One morning as I applied my makeup I noticed a small red spot. Due to the fact that it did not hurt and more importantly, I was able to cover it with makeup, I ignored the problem. Over time, the spot became crusty but I used concealer to hide it and continued to ignore it. The spot became increasingly difficult to hide and it began to bleed. At that point I made an appointment with a dermatologist.

With just a quick look, before any test or a biopsy, the doctor was sure it was cancer. He had obviously seen many cases before. To be certain, a biopsy was performed and the diagnosis was basal cell carcinoma, which is the most common type of skin cancer. Melanoma is less common, but more dangerous because advanced melanomas have the ability to spread. If not found early, the cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to form tumors in other parts of the body.

Basal cell carcinoma begins as a single point in the upper layer of the skin and slowly enlarges, spreading both along the surface and downward. The tumor often extends beyond what is visible. Although basal cell carcinoma can be locally destructive, it is extremely rare for it to matastasize.

Just days after my biopsy results I underwent a specialized procedure for the removal of skin cancers called the Mohs Micrographic Surgery. The procedure is named after the originator of the technique, Dr. Frederick Mohs.

The surgery begins with an injection to numb the area. This was the most painful part of the procedure as the upper lip is an extremely sensitive area. The visible portion of the tumor is removed and a thin layer of tissue is taken from the surrounding skin. The removed tissue is mapped and sectioned and microscopic slides are made. At this point in the procedure I was bandaged and returned to the waiting room while the slides were examined.

Looking around the room I saw a lady with a bandage on her neck, another lady bandaged on the lower arm and a gentleman with a large bandage on his nose. It was certaintly evident that day that skin cancer is the most common malignant cancer in humans.

Under the microscope, the deep and peripheral margins are examined. If examination reveals the presence of additional tumor the process is repeated until no tumor is found. I went back in for more tissue to be removed, was re-bandaged, and returned to the waiting room once again. After the second surgical stage my margins were found clear.

I was fortunate that the cancer had not spread to the inside of my lip. But, due to the size of the area that had to be removed, I was scheduled for reconstructive surgery with Dr. Rubinstein, a facial plastic surgeon, the following day. That evening I removed the bandage, just to take a peek, and what I saw was a hole the size of a nickel. I did not show the wound to my husband for fear he would faint.

The next morning Dr. Rubinstein performed his magic by stretching the skin on my cheek to cover the nickel sized hole. The facial skin is the same texture and a better color match than using tissue from behind the ear which has a more waxy texture.

With a rather large bandage that could not be missed due to the location, I returned to work. Healing progressed quickly but my first follow up visit revealed a problem. After the surgery, Dr. Rubinstein had sent a sliver of tissue to the lab for evaluation. This is not routine but for some reason he decided to do so. Thank you Dr. Rubinstein!

The lab test revealed cancerous tissue was still evident. The Mohs procedure was not totally successful. So it was back to the dermatologist for more slicing and dicing. At this point the cutting was extremely close to the lip, but again, the painful part was the numbing injections. With a small incision in the shape of a banana the tissue was removed and again I was off to the surgical center for a repeat performance by Dr. Rubinstein, my hero.

The most difficult part of the next two weeks was not being able to play tennis due to sweating into the wound. In no time, the stitches were removed and I was back to my routine. I treated the area with a cream to reduce scaring.

Six years later the scar is not that noticeable and for the most part I forget about it completely. But, what I do not forget to do is use sunscreen, Shade #45, check my skin regularly and I see my dermatologist at least twice a year and more often if I see anything unusual develop.

Susan Rutter http://www.read-by-ear.com

Susan Rutter http://read-by-ear.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Rutter

What is Skin Cancer and Who is Most at Risk?

2007-08-31T09:17:00.001-07:00

By Louise Forrest

If you have read a newspaper or listened to the news over the last few years, then you will know that there are always constant warnings telling us to protect our skin against skin cancer. Whilst many people do listen to these warnings, there are still a shocking amount of people who still ignore them.

If you are one of those people that do ignore the warnings you are likely to be thinking that there is no chance of you getting the cancer and that there is no harm in missing an application or two of sun tan lotion.

Skin Cancer and its Various Forms

Skin cancer is not as rare as some people think that it is. Whilst it is true that staying in the sun unprotected for a little amount of time, rarely leads to skin cancer, it still can occur. There are different forms of skin cancer, though some are extremely rare. The three most common types of skin cancer include:

Melanoma

This is less common than the other two types of skin cancer, though it can be a lot more serious. It develops from the melanocytes in the skin and is usually seen as a pigmented lesion with an irregular shape in the skin. This is definitely the most potentially harmful cancer as it can spread to various different areas within the body. If treated early, the good news is that this type of cancer has a very high cure rate, so get to the doctors as soon as possible for your best chance of recovery!

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This is usually seen within any part of the body which is exposed to excessive sun. Often occurring in the hands, lower lip, and the forehead, this type of cancer appears as a red bump or an ulceration of the skin which does not heal. The cancer if left untreated can spread to lymph nodes within the affected area.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma is by far the most common type of cancer you are likely to get and it usually appears as a small bump which has a pearly colored appearance. Usually the cancer is found on areas of the body which have had excessive sun exposure. This type of skin cancer does not usually spread to other parts of the body, and will only spread to the skin around the actual cancer.

Overall, Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common skin cancer but it is not the most serious. Usually people with fair skin are more at risk than others of contracting the cancer, especially people with freckles. Obviously, the longer you expose your skin to the sun without sufficient protection, the more at risk you are of developing skin cancer.

How to Prevent Yourself from Getting Skin Cancer and the Treatments Available

It is really easy to protect yourself against skin cancer, so really there is no excuse for not preventing it. Using an adequate amount of sun protection lotion is a must, and unfortunately many people simply do not bother with it. There seems to be some confusion between how much you should use and what protection factor you should go for. Generally, children and people with fair skin need to be using a higher protection factor than other people. People with darker skin do not tend to get skin cancer as often as people with lighter skin so they do not need a high factor sun lotion.

Sunbeds are also a cause of skin cancer, though cases are rare. So if you do use a sunbed, it is important that you limit your use of it, and contact your doctor to see how often they recommend you should use it.

When out in the sun do not forget to protect your face too. Applying lotion to the ears, nose and neck will help to protect those sensitive areas from the sun.

If you do notice any changes in your skin such as moles, lesions or sores which do not heal, it is always better to consult your doctor immediately. If caught early, most skin cancer can be cured. There are various forms of treatment for skin cancer including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The treatment which you will receive depends upon your age, health and the size of the cancer. However, surgery is the most common form of treatment and it is usually done as an outpatient procedure.

Keep YOURSELF looking and feeling great with these great FREE Beauty Tips from http://www.NaturalElements.co.uk In just seconds you can access over 36 beauty topics that will keep you looking younger and more radiant. You can now get the very latest information on Organic Skin Care by subscribing with RSS.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_Forrest

Sunburn, UV Overexposure & Skin Cancer: Prevention or Cure?

2007-08-31T09:15:00.000-07:00

By Angela Perin

Overexposure to the sun and UV rays is rarely obvious at the time, -- and on many occasions, probably quite unintentional. However repeated exposure has rather more adverse long-term implications for our bodies and our health.

We’re all well aware of the more obvious and painful symptoms of sunburn including hot, red, tender skin – which in the case of a more heavy burn can also include blistering, peeling and dehydration.

The damage that occurs beneath the skin as a result of sunburn is considerably ‘less obvious’ at the time of exposure, and may in fact take years to produce symptoms visible to the naked eye.

The fact that damage caused to skin cells during sunburn can not only accelerate the aging process, but also increase the risk of cataracts and skin cancer, should certainly demand our attention.

When faced with the potential risk of having to treat more than just the temporary symptoms and pain of sunburn, doesn’t it make more sense to avoid the risk in the first place?

Seek prevention rather than cure!

So before you venture out into the sun again, remember these important tips to protect yourself from overexposure of UV rays and sunburn, and its associated risks:

1. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeve shirt and a hat. Consider the ‘additional’ protection of an umbrella or shade where appropriate.

2. Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 3 pm if at all possible.

3. Remember that UV rays are present even on cloudy days.

4. Remember that sunlight is strongly reflected from sand, snow, ice, water and concrete, which can intensify your direct sunlight exposure.

5. Apply sunscreen containing a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun.

6. Reapply sunscreen at regular intervals while out in the sun, especially if you are perspiring heavily or swimming.

7. Remember that UV overexposure is not limited to ‘sun exposure’. Sunburn can also occur as a result of UV exposure from other sources including tanning beds/lamps, welding arcs etc.

Prevention is a far better treatment than cure. In the event however, that you discover any unusual moles or growths on your skin – (particularly if they’re irregular in shape, bleed, itch, or appear to be changing) - consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

When it comes to overexposure of UV rays and sunburn that result in skin cancer, early detection will certainly assist in providing you with more effective treatment. But considering your options beforehand – what will provide the best outcome for your health? Prevention or Cure? I know which one I’d choose...!

Angela Perin is author of the comprehensive new guide "Your Personal Guide to Tanning" - covering everything from your skin, uv light & sun-tanning, to sunburn, skin cancer, sunburn, sun protection and sunless tanning. Discover Safe Tan - The Ultimate Experience in Natural Sunless Tanning and download your free copy of this guide including bonus homemade recipes for sunburn relief, sunscreen and exfoliation!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angela_Perin

Skin Cancer Can Be Avoided

2007-08-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

By Riley Hendersen

Skin cancer is diagnosed more often than all other cancers combined. In 2006, more than 62,000 people in the United States discovered they had this cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. More than 9,000 people died from it.

Ultraviolet or UV rays are to skin cancer what smoking is to lung cancer-a highly avoidable cancer-causing agent. Excessive sun exposure is the cause for most of this. Other risk factors include exposure to coal, arsenic or radium, multiple moles, having a fair complexion and experiencing severe sunburns as a child.

There are two types. Non-melanomas are the most common type and the most treatable. This type rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Non-melanoma is found often on the head and neck. Exposure to UV rays is often the cause of non-melanoma cancer.

The second type is melanoma. This begins in the melanocytes, or the cells that produce color or pigment. Melanoma skin cancer can be found anywhere. According to the American Cancer Society, men most likely find this on their trunk while women usually discover it on their legs. Melanoma is the most fatal of the two types. It can spread to other parts of the body.

Skin cancer can be cured if it is caught early. It is recommended that you check yourself once a month. Look at yourself in a bright room in front of a mirror. Examine your skin closely and note the look of moles, freckles and blemishes.

What kind of changes should you look for to determine if you are at risk for skin cancer. Here are a few signs:

* If a mole has changed color
* Dark coloring that has exceeded the mole or mark
* Oozing of bleeding
* Itchiness, tenderness or pain

Several treatments are available. You physician may chose to cut the melanoma completely out. You will have stitches and a scar after the excision. If you doctor has confirmed melanoma, he will want you to come back so he can cut skin around it. This will let you and your physician know if the skin cancer has spread.

The best way to deter this is to monitor your time in the sun. Here are several recommendations to keep you skin cancer-free:

* Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its brightest.
* If you have to be outdoors, look for the shade.
* Cover up as much of your skin as possible.
* Use a sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor of SPF 14.

Following these recommendations and keeping a eye on suspicious moles and marks can greatly reduce your chances of getting skin cancer.

For more information on cancer try visiting http://www.cancercondition.com - a website that specializes in providing cancer related information and resources including information on skin cancer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Riley_Hendersen

Taking Steps to Prevent Skin Cancer

2007-08-31T09:12:00.000-07:00

By John Grimes

Many forms of cancer are difficult to prevent. If you are diagnosed with them, it is just your bad luck. This is not the case with skin cancer.

The skin performs a very important purpose. It protects the body against heat, radiation and infection. The skin also regulates your temperature and produces vitamin D. To the surprise of many, the skin is considered an organ. In fact, it is the largest organ you have.

The skin is surprisingly tough given its thinness. That being said, it can be damaged by exposure to sunlight. This often presents in the form of skin cancer. There are three types of skin cancer – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Squamous occurs in the top level of the skin, basal cell in the middle layer of the skin and melanoma in the deep layers of the skin.

So, how can you prevent skin cancer? As you might expect, there are some practical steps. The first is to reduce your exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation is found in typical daylight, but you can also be exposed to it in heavy doses in tanning booths and under sunlamps. Both should be avoided.

Staying out of the sun completely will prevent skin cancer. Obviously, that is slightly impractical. Living in your home 24/7 will protect you from skin cancer, but it will not do much for your mental stability! In short, you are going to be outside.

While outside, there are some practical steps you can take. Keep in mind the sun is most intense from 11 to 3 each day. Try to wear protective clothing that can cut down on your exposure. This can include hats, shirts and such.

Obviously, some of your skin is going to be exposed to the sun at some point. After all, you might want to go to the beach! If you do, the key to reducing your risk of skin cancer is to ease into it. If you are bone white, don’t go hit the beach for an 8 hour session. You are going to get roasted, even with sunscreen on.

The final practical step is a simple one as well. Wear sunscreen at all times! Many people mistakenly put sunscreen on when they first go outside and then forget about it. Sunscreen only lasts for a certain amount of time depending on the brand. Make sure to reapply it from time to time. This is particularly true if you go in the water regardless of the “waterproof” claims made by the product.

Nobody wants to stay inside when it is a beautiful day. Make sure to wear a hat and put sunscreen on to prevent the sun from damaging your skin. Then enjoy yourself!

Find biodegradable sun protection products at http://www.AllTerrainco.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grimes

Skin Cancer Prevention - How Can I Live an Active Lifestyle and Still Protect Myself from Skin Cancer

2007-08-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

By Colleen Moriarty

With all we know now about the damage that the sun can cause, you may feel as though you need to hide under an umbrella all summer. And no wonder: Exposure to the sun’s UVA radiation promotes irregular pigment, fine lines, wrinkles, rough texture, and thin and dry skin. UVB radiation burns as well as tans. And it can lead to skin cancer, of which there are a million new cases every year. But don’t fret: You can play outside safely. “Proper sun protection will save your skin as well as your life,” says dermatologist Sandra Read, M.D. Try these sun-smart strategies:

Pick a number. “Anything less than SPF 15 isn’t worthwhile,” says Dr. Read. Go for an SPF of at least 30.

Choose wisely. The SPF in your makeup may be fine when you’re spending most of the day at the office, but if you’re exercising outdoors or splashing in the pool, opt for a waterproof sunscreen.

Read labels. Some skin savers: benzophenones (oxybenzone), sulisobenzone, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and Parsol 1789. And last year, the FDA approved the UVA blocker ecamsule (brand name, Mexoryl).

Seek shade. Avoid direct sun—especially between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M.—and wear a wide-brim hat.

Consider sun-protective clothing. A regular cotton T-shirt offers an SPF of just 5, but tightly woven UV fabrics can block out more than 97 percent of UV rays. Also available, notes Dr. Read: Rit SunGuard, a clothing rinse with a special ingredient that effectively scatters UV light.

Don’t forget your lips and eyes. Use lip balms and lipsticks that contain SPF, and choose sunglasses with UV-protective lenses.

About our expert: Sandra Read, M.D., is an instructor in the dermatology department of Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.

Sparkling Beauty This summer, add some bling to your makeup routine. “The colors for this season are beautiful metallic shades,” says makeup artist Mally Roncal. To create your own luminous look:

1. Keep foundation soft and sheer. “I love powder foundation in summer,” says Roncal. “It’s sheer and helps fight oil and shine.”

2. To help set your eye shadow, start with eye shadow base. Then apply sheer metallic shadow from lash line to crease. Choose a liner with a bit of sparkle; dust with translucent powder.

3. Apply blush to the apples of the cheeks in a circular motion, then swipe shimmery powder across cheekbones.

4. Slick on lip gloss! Use a sheer “invisible” lip liner, or a natural liner that matches your lip tone, to keep gloss in place.

5. Polish nails to perfection with a cool, icy shade. “This summer, polishes are washes of shimmery pastel delight—think Italian ices,” says Robert Cleary, director of product development for Dashing Diva. Follow these skincare- and makeup tips, and you’ll not only prevent skin cancer, but look and feel great all summer long!

Get a FREE 2-year subscription to REMEDY, one of MediZine, LLC’s award-winning health magazines Sign up today!

Get REMEDY, one of MediZine’s FREE health magazines

Colleen Moriarty is a writer for MediZine, LLC. Robert A. Barnett is Content Director of HealthyUpdates.com, a health education website produced by MediZine, LLC.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colleen_Moriarty

Know Your Skin Cancer

2007-08-31T09:08:00.000-07:00

By Juliet Cohen

Skin cancer is the most common form of human cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Skin cancer generally develops in the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, so a tumor is usually clearly visible. There are three major types of skin cancer — basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell carcinomas and most squamous cell carcinomas are slow growing and highly treatable, especially if found early. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It affects deeper layers of the skin and has the greatest potential to spread to other tissues in the body. Squamous cell carcinoma also can spread internally. It is estimated that over 1 million new cases occur annually. The annual rates of all forms of skin cancer are increasing each year, representing a growing public concern. It has also been estimated that nearly half of all Americans who live to age 65 will develop skin cancer at least once. They usually form on the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Another type of skin cancer, melanoma, is more dangerous but less common. For localized melanoma, the 5-year survival rate is 99%; survival rates for regional and distant stage diseases are 65% and 15%, respectively.

Skin cancer is an increasingly common condition. This is in part attributed to increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which in turn is thought to be caused by the increased popularity of sun tanning. Solar or actinic keratoses are rough, red or brown, scaly patches on the skin. They are usually found on areas exposed to the sun, and sometimes develop into squamous cell cancer. Moles are clusters of heavily pigmented skin cells, either flat or raised above the skin surface. While most pose no danger, some-particularly large moles present at birth, or those with mottled colors and poorly defined borders-may develop into malignant melanoma. Moles are frequently removed for cosmetic reasons, or because they're constantly irritated by clothing or jewelry. Skin cancer develops primarily on areas of sun-exposed skin, including the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms and hands, and on the legs in women. There are varieties of treatments available, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, to treat skin cancer.

The goals of treatment for skin cancer are to remove all of the cancer, reduce the chance of recurrence, preserve healthy skin tissue, and minimize scarring after surgery. Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type and size of cancer, your age, and your overall health. Surgery is the most common form of treatment. It generally consists of an office or outpatient procedure to remove the lesion and check edges to make sure all the cancer was removed. Most skin cancer removal can be done using a local anesthetic. Excisional biopsy – The entire tumor along with a margin of tissue that is not a visible part of the tumor is removed. Incisional biopsy – A portion of the lesion is removed during an incisional biopsy, which is usually performed when the lesion is large. In cryosurgery, tissue is destroyed by freezing to -40 ° C or below. Liquid nitrogen, the only cryogen effective in destroying malignant and premalignant skin tumors, is used. Radiation may destroy basal and squamous cell carcinomas if surgery isn't an option. Biological therapy-Interferon and interleukin-2 are under study to treat melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.

Skin Cancer Treatment Tips

1. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. And 2 p.m. and during the summer months.

2. Excisional skin surgery is a common treatment to remove skin cancer.

3. Mohs surgery (also called Mohs micrographic surgery) is often used for skin cancer. The area of the growth is numbed.

4. Electrodesiccation and curettage is often used to remove small basal cell skin cancers.

5. Cryosurgery is often used for people who are not able to have other types of surgery.

6. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

7. Use a high-factor sunscreen of at least SPF15 that filters out UVB and UVA and reapply it every two hours.

8. Wear protective clothing - a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and loose, tightly woven clothing

Juliet Cohen writes articles on diseases and conditions and women health care. More information on health related topics visit our site at http://www.health-care-articles.info.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Juliet_Cohen

What You Need to Know About Skin Cancer Prevention

2007-08-31T09:07:00.001-07:00

By Mike Selvon

Skin cancer prevention is preached by medical professionals all over the United States. This is no surprise given that the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation reported more than one million Americans were diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in 2005. Despite the medical evidence available on skin cancer, our society remains focused on tanning beds and sunbathing without using the proper protection.

Skin cancer comes in two forms, melanomas and non-melanomas. Melanomas usually account for only four percent of diagnosed skin cancers, but they are considered to be the most deadly. Melanomas occur in the epidermis, the skin's outer layer, usually appearing as a dark mole with uneven edges.

If detected early through skin cancer prevention, melanomas can be eliminated without causing harm. If ignored, these cancers can break away and spread to other parts of the body. Non-melanomas, on the other hand, are comprised of two different cell types, basal cells and squamous cells. Both of these cells are caused from sun exposure, but basal cells form in the lower epidermis while squamous cells form in the upper epidermis.

Preventing skin cancer is often associated with older generations, but today you see more teenagers and young adults spending excessive amounts of time in the sun. Without the proper protection, our society could see a surge in skin cancer diagnosis. Tanning beds are another cause of skin cancer and are often used throughout the year, not just during the summer months.

Proper prevention begins with knowing what you need to be sun safe any time of the year. If you have light colored hair and fair skin, you should be weary of exposing yourself to over indulge in the sun's rays. You should also be aware if anyone in your family has been diagnosed with skin cancer because this could increase your chances of developing the disease.

Sunscreen is recommended as a form of protection against the sun. The American Cancer Society urges the use of waterproof sunscreen that has an SPF15 or more of both UVA and UVB protection. You should also apply at least an ounce of sunscreen for your body twenty minutes before going out into the sun.

Too often, individuals forget to re-apply their sunscreen after being exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays. Also be sure to avoid the sun during 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. because this is when the sun's rays are most intense. Staying unprotected in the sun during this time is when you put yourself in the danger zone for damaging healthy skin cells.

Proper skin cancer prevention should be practiced by everyone in your family, even babies. Doctors recommend babies that are six months or younger stay out of the sun. Teaching your children to be sun smart is important for their health too.

Find shady areas when you take them outside to play and be sure they have the proper protection on. Clothing is another way to protect yourself and your family from harmful rays. Wear hats that have wide brims to cover all areas of your neck, ears, eyes and scalp.

Skin cancer prevention does not mean you have to avoid the sun altogether. It just means you should be smart when you do go outside. Remembering to use a protective sunscreen all year is a great way to start your cancer prevention routine.

Know your skin and any marks or freckles so you can recognize abnormalities that may develop. The sooner you start guarding yourself from harmful rays, the better you raise your chance of avoiding skin cancer.

Visit Mike Selvon cancer prevention portal for more information on skin cancer prevention, and leave a comment at our cancer prevention blog. Don't forget to claim your FREE self help ebook on dealing with cancer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Selvon

Skin Cancer Prevention: 5 Ways to Protect Yourself from UV Rays

2007-08-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

By Britt Gillette

Skin cancer prevention measures can actively reduce your chances of developing skin cancer if you implement them in your daily routine. The most common form of cancer in the United States, tens of thousands of Americans contract skin cancer every year.

Skin cancer comes in three forms: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Of the three, melanoma is the most dangerous and life threatening. Skin cancer claims the lives of approximately ten thousand Americans on an annual basis.

What causes skin cancer?

Overexposure to ultraviolet sunlight (UV rays) is believed to be the dominant external factor in a person’s development of skin cancer, although genetic factors can play a role. To protect yourself from UV rays, you should take the following 5 steps for proper skin cancer prevention:

1. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: Avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight during midday (generally from 10am to 4pm). This is the time when UV rays are most intense. Plan your schedule to avoid outdoor activities during these hours. Also, be aware that sand and snow reflect sunlight, so if you’re at the beach or a ski resort, direct sunlight can bombard you from every direction with UV rays.

2. Cover Yourself: When out in the sun, keep your skin covered. Wear long-sleeves and long pants if possible. Wearing a hat with a 3 to 4 inch brim all around is preferable. This will guard your neck and cheeks from dangerous prolonged exposure. Also note that dry, dark-colored garments offer the best protection.

3. Use Sunscreen Properly: You should always use sunscreen when enduring prolonged exposure in the sun. Find a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of at least 15 and read the directions for proper application. The higher the SPF, the higher the protection you will receive against dangerous sunburns. However, sunscreen does not offer “bulletproof” protection, and UV rays can penetrate water, so just because you feel “cool” in the water doesn’t mean you’re protected from sunburn.

4. Use Sunglasses That Block UV Rays: Making certain your sunglasses can block UV rays helps to guard your eyes from serious sun damage. The best constructed sunglasses should have a UV ray absorption rate of 99% to 100%. Never assume that darker lenses equal increased protection. UV rays are blocked by a chemical applied to the lenses. This chemical has nothing to do with the color of transparency of sunglass lenses.

5. Stay Away From Tanning Beds: It is a myth to believe that tanning beds and sunlamps are free of harmful UV rays. These cosmetic instruments might make your skin more attractive in the short-term, but they can significantly increase your risk of developing skin cancer in the long-term. Health professionals advise their patients to avoid them.

By implementing these 5 steps in your daily routine, you can significantly decrease your risk of developing skin cancer, while maintaining a healthy lifestyle that allows for proper exposure to the sun. Another important step in prevention of skin cancer is routine examination by a doctor. If skin cancer is detected early, then your odds of survival are markedly increased.

About The Author
Britt Gillette is the author of a website where you can learn about Himalayan Goji Juice and other interests of the author.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Britt_Gillette

Do You Know About These Skin Cancer Risks And Prevention?

2007-08-31T09:04:00.000-07:00

By Candice Sabrina

Although it is not the deadliest form of cancer, skin cancer has earned the notorious label of being the most common type of cancer suffered by those in the United States. With this statistic, it makes sense to want to learn as much as possible about how to prevent skin cancer. Which groups of people are most likely to get skin cancer? What can we do to make ourselves less susceptible to this disorder?

Studies have shown that some skin types are more prone to the damaging effects of the sun and its ultraviolet rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, there are six different skin types. They are ranked in progressive order with skin type one being the most vulnerable to sun damage while skin type six is least vulnerable. However, even those who are not as vulnerable to skin damage from the sun should still take precautionary steps to protect themselves from harmful UV rays.

Here are descriptions of the six skin types. Type one consists of extremely fair skinned people. People with this skin type tend to burn severely and do not tan. They generally have blonde or red hair and blue or green eyes. For those with type two skin, their skin is also fair and burns easily but they will eventually develop a little bit of a tan. The eyes and hair of these people are generally a bit darker than those with skin type one.

People with skin type three have darker skin which may burn, but will turn to tan. Those with even darker skin that always tans quickly make up skin type four. Skin type five contains those with brown skin while type six includes those with black skin.

Now that you have an idea how likely you may be to develop skin cancer, there are some precautions you can take to reduce your risks. The best thing you can do for your skin is to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This includes staying out of tanning beds.

If you are out in the sun, even just long enough to take a walk or work in the yard; be sure to put on sunscreen. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. You should also wear a hat with a wide brim to give the skin on your face and neck extra protection from the sun.

Every thirty days or so, you should check the entire surface of your skin for any changes or new growths. These may be signs that skin cancer is developing. If you find anything unusual, bring it to your doctor's attention as soon as possible.

The type of skin that you have may increase your risk for skin cancer. This is especially so if you have fair skin that burns easily. One of the best ways to avoid skin cancer is to stay out of the sun, or at least protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays if you must be outside. You should also check your skin regularly for new growths or irregularities that might indicate the formation of skin cancer.

For more information on cancer try visiting http://www.cancercondition.com - a website that specializes in providing cancer related information and resources including information on skin cancer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Candice_Sabrina

4 False Skin Cancer Myths

2007-08-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

By Donald Mckenzie Jr

1) Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Enough Protection

Even 85% of UV rays can make it through on cloudy days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, out for a jog or letting your children outside at any time of year. This happens even when you are not at the beach. However, you are usually less dressed at the beach, and covering up is still recommended even when wearing sunscreen. The sunscreen itself also wears off with water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.

2) Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Protect You Later

Skin cancer can take up to 20 or more years to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people receive about 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one red hot sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later on in life. Taking better care now will indeed reduce your risk, but it will not fully eliminate the damage already done.

3) A Tan Means You Are Already Protected

People with a darker skin tone are less likely to develop cancer. However tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer by 20%.

4) It is Impossible to get Burned on Overcast Days

Just because the sun is hidden by clouds does not mean you do not need protection. As previously mentioned the powerful UV rays from the sun will still penetrate your skin even on cloudy days.

Look over these common myths and understand that the rays of the sun will always be able to find you. Unless you are indoors, you will never be fully protected.

For more important health articles visit Donald's Health Website. http://updated-health-news.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Mckenzie_Jr

Prevent Skin Cancer

2007-08-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

By Eric Hartwell

If you don’t know by now: Wear Your Sunscreen! Suncreen with SPF 15 or higher can significantly reduce the possibility of melanomas, the malignant tumors that contribute to skin cancer. The good news is that melanomas, when recognized and treated early, are almost 100% curable. The big problem with malignant melanomas lies in their being ignored, undetected or untreated, causing the cancer to spread elsewhere in the body. In 2007, the United States population is estimated at encountering close to 60,000 new instances of melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society.

Self-examination is the best way to combat these melanomas. Your Dermatologist can provide professional care annually and instruct you on how to competently check your body for melanomas. These self-exams should be performed monthly, looking out for two kinds of moles, normal moles (round, brown blemishes or “beauty marks”) and dysplastic nevi (atypical moles). If there is a history of melanoma in your family, you are at a greater risk for skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer; basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Self-examination gives you a higher chance of catching unusual moles and potentially saving your life. If, upon examining, you find any moles that are raised, bleeding, oddly shaped or different than the last time you checked them, see your Dermatologist immediately. A good rule of thumb is to follow the skin cancer ABCDE rule.

A- asymmetry: look for abnormalities in symmetry – does it look the same on both sides?

B-border: blurry, uneven or rough edges in an early melanoma

C- color- multi colored moles or moles that have changed color. Moles can range from brown, black, tan, red, white, blue, pink, purple or gray.

D- diameter- Melanomas are typically larger than your average mole, about the size of a pencil eraser or larger than 1-4 “ in diameter.

E- Elevation/Evolving- any mole that has an uneven surface, is raised or changes in color, shape or size should be brought to your doctor’s attention. Additionally, bleeding, scabbing or itching are also warning signs of potential melanoma.

Men and women should pay close attention to areas of the body that are repeatedly exposed to the most sun including the chest, neck, tips of the ears, face, hands, back and lower legs, forearms and shoulders. Dangerous UVA and UVB rays from the sun and repeated exposure to these rays can effectuate skin cancer. If you live in a very sunny climate, like Australia, Arizona or Florida you are at a higher risk for skin cancer. If you have experienced major sunburns as a child, this can also be a contributing factor. It is very important to shield yourself from the sun with protective clothing, high SPF sunscreen (15, 30 or higher) and wear it on your face daily. Even in Winter! If you have pale skin, are susceptible to sunburns, have light-colored eyes, work outside in the sun often, use tanning booths, or have many existing moles you are at a higher risk of contracting skin cancer. People who have had chemotherapy or diseases such as HIV, lymphoma or other immune system destructive diseases are also at a higher risk for melanoma.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions on health and visit our associated site articles for free.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Hartwell

Skin Cancer Warning Signs

2007-08-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

By John Grimes

What are the skin cancer warning signs and what can be done to help prevent skin cancer?

In recent years, a lot of attention has been focused on the prevention of skin cancer. Of course, skin cancer is not a new disease but as scientists have learned more about how to prevent it, they realized that early detection is the key. It is important, therefore, that people are aware of what they can do to prevent skin cancer and what to keep an eye out for so that they can catch the cancer in time.

There are two main risk factors for skin cancer. The first is sun exposure. People who live in sunny areas, people who are continuously exposed to the sunlight, or people who were badly sunburned as children are all at a higher risk. Fair-skinned people are high risk as well. It is important that everyone be protected when they go out in the sun. Sunscreen should be worn all the time, even if the day seems cloudy or not that hot. This is especially important for those with fair skin and for children. If you are going to be exposed to the sun for a long period of time, you should try to cover up as much skin as possible with hats, long pants, or jackets. Young children should always wear a wide-brimmed hat when playing out in the sun. The second component of skin cancer risk is genetic. Some people are just more apt to get skin cancer than others. There is nothing you can do about this, but if you know you are at a greater risk because of your family, you should be even more vigilant in checking for skin cancer warning signs.

There are several types of skin cancer, and they all present slightly different. Melanoma is one of the rarer skin cancers, but it is also the most deadly. Catching melanoma early is important, so everyone should make checks of their bodies on a monthly basis, just like a monthly breast exam is recommended for women. One way to remember the warning signs of melanoma is the mnemonic “ABCDE.” The A stands for asymmetrical. Check any moles on your body. Asymmetrical moles could be malignant. B stand for border. If the border of the mole or mark looks irregular, then get it checked out. C stands for color. Moles that are multiple colors could be cancerous. D stands for diameter. If you have a mole that measures more than 5 mm, it is at greater risk for being a melanoma. E can stand for evolution or elevation. Evolution means how the mole has appeared over time. Has it changed color, shape, or size? This is a sign that cancer might be developing. Elevation means that mole is raised up above the skin. If you have any of these warning signs, you should make an appointment to see your doctor right away.

Skin cancer can present in different ways and a doctor will need to examine you to determine if a mole or area of skin needs to be checked further. A biopsy is usually done and the sample is checked for malignancy.

Early detection of skin cancer is important. Many doctors are including skin checks during yearly physicals. If you are concerned about an area of your body, discuss it with your doctor. They can let you know if more testing should be done.

John Grimes is with AllTerrainco.com - makers of natural sanitizer products for skin care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grimes

Types of Skin Cancer

2007-08-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

By John Grimes

Although there are several types of skin cancer, the most common are melanoma, basal call carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Although melanoma is not found as often as other skin cancers, it is one of the most well known because it causes the most deaths related to skin cancer. Melanoma is hard to treat, with the most effective option being simply removing the part of the skin that is affected. However, this has to be done early in order to be at all successful. There are approximately 160,000 new cases of melanoma each year. Approximately 48,000 people die of melanoma each year. Melanoma can be caused by exposure to the sun. This is particularly significant if a person has had a bad sunburn during childhood. White males usually get melanoma more than any other group, and people living in sunny climates are at higher risk. There is also a genetic risk factor.

Melanomas are usually noticed by detecting a change in skin moles. If there is any change to the mole, this might mean that a melanoma is present. Individuals should check their moles to see if the size, color or shape has changed. They should also alert their doctor if a mole becomes itchy or starts to bleed. If a patient has a family history of melanoma, they should be examined by a doctor at least once a year as part of a preventative plan.

Squamous cell carcinoma is a tumor of the epithelium cells. It occurs in many areas of the body besides the skin including the mouth, lungs and cervix. Squamous cell carcinomas make up about 20% of all skin cancer cases. It is most often caused by continuous exposure to sunlight over a long period of time. If an area is suspected to be cancerous, a biopsy will be done. If cancer is found, surgery will be done to remove the area.

The most common form of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. In the United States, there are approximately 800,000 new cases per year. It occurs most commonly in individuals who have fair skin and have been exposed to the sun. There is also a genetic component, as this cancer also occurs in areas which are not exposed to the sun. Luckily, basal cell carcinomas rarely cause death and can be treated successfully in most cases. They can cause disfiguration when the cancer is on the nose, lips, ears, or eyes.

If you suspect that you might have skin cancer, you should contact your doctor or a dermatologist to have the area examined. It is also a good idea to have your doctor check out your skin during your yearly physical.

John Grimes is with AllTerrainco.com - makers of natural sanitizer products for skin care.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Grimes

Skin Cancer

2007-08-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

By Param Singh

Skin cancer is the most prevalent of all cancers. When our body comes in the contact of sunlight there may be chances of skin cancers. and it results in sunburn and blistering. There are three forms of skin cancer:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma – This skin cancer may appear as a bump or as a red, scaly patch. It is the second most common skin cancer found in fair-skinned persons and is typically found on the rim of the ear, face lips and mouth.

• Malignant Melanoma – This is the most deadly of all skin cancers and it is estimated that 7,300 Americans die annually from melanoma. Like the less aggressive skin cancers, it is almost always curable when detected in its early stages. Excessive sun exposure, particularly sunburn, is the most important preventable cause of melanoma.

• Basal Cell Carcinoma – This skin cancer usually appears as a small, fleshy bump or nodule, most often on the head, neck and hands. Occasionally these cancers may appear on the trunk as red patches.

Skin cancer is treated with an array of surgical procedures that are dependent on the need of the individual patient. Early detection and removal offer the best chance for a cure. The best defense against skin cancer is to avoid over exposure to sunlight (including tanning), which is the main cause of skin cancer, especially when it results in sunburn and blistering. Actually every one knows that we are facing problem of ultraviolet rays due to losing ozone layer in our atmosphere. And seek shade between 10am and 4pm when ultraviolet rays are the most intense and apply sunscreen.

If you are facing any kind of skin problem then you should go for dermatologist. So that they can diagnose your skin problem at time and give you treatment according to the problem.

webmaster
http://www.the-dermatology-centre.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Param_Singh