Protect Your Skin From the Most Common Type of Cancer

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time to spread awareness about the dangers of skin cancer and encourage people to take preventative measures. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it's estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. However, many cases of skin cancer can be prevented by taking simple steps to protect your skin.

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can come from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common types of skin cancer and are usually treatable if caught early. Melanoma, although less common, is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and can spread quickly if not treated promptly.

The ABCDEs of melanoma are a helpful mnemonic that can help you remember some of the key characteristics to look for when examining skin growths that may be suspicious for melanoma. The letters stand for the following:

A - Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.

B - Border: The edges of the mole are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.

C - Color: The mole has different shades of brown, black, or tan, or it may be white, red, or blue.

D - Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller.

E - Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color, or is evolving in some other way.

It's important to remember that not all melanomas will show these characteristics, and some benign moles may also display them. If you notice any changes in your skin, it's always a good idea to get them checked out by a health care professional.

Prevention is the best defense against skin cancer. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your skin:

Wear protective clothing: Wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants and hats with brims. Look for clothing made from sun-protective fabrics with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 50+.

Apply sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher. Apply it to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Seek shade: Avoid the sun during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must be outside, seek shade under trees, umbrellas or other types of cover.

Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. If you want a tan, use a self-tanning product instead.

Check your skin regularly: Perform regular self-exams of your skin to look for any changes, such as new moles or growths, changes in the size or color of existing moles or any sores that won't heal. If you notice anything suspicious, see a dermatologist right away.

There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding skin cancer.

1. One common myth is that people with darker skin tones are not at risk for skin cancer. While it is true that people with more melanin in their skin have a lower risk of skin cancer, they are still at risk and can develop skin cancer.

2. Another myth is that using sunscreen is not necessary on cloudy days. However, up to 80 percent of the sun's UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so it is important to wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.

3. Finally, some people believe that a "base tan" can protect them from sunburn and skin cancer. This is not true, as any change in skin color indicates skin damage from UV radiation, and a tan offers minimal protection against further damage.

It is important to be aware of these myths and to take proper precautions to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.

If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, there are several treatment options available depending on the type and stage of your cancer. The most common treatment for skin cancer is surgery, but other treatments such as radiation therapy may be used. Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat certain types of skin cancer, particularly those on the face or other sensitive areas where tissue conservation is important. During Mohs surgery, the surgeon removes layers of skin one at a time and examines them under a microscope until no cancer cells are found. This procedure has a high cure rate and allows for the preservation of as much healthy tissue as possible. Your doctor will recommend the best treatment plan for your specific case based on the type, location and stage of your skin cancer.

Skin cancer is a potentially preventable disease. By taking steps to protect your skin, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and enjoy the outdoors safely. If you have any concerns about your skin, don't hesitate to see a dermatologist for an evaluation. Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment. Let's make this Skin Cancer Awareness Month a time to spread awareness and encourage others to protect their skin.

Remi Hamel, M.D., is a dermatological oncologist specializing in Mohs surgery. He sees patients on the MyMichigan Medical Center Midland campus. You can also learn more by visiting www.mymichigan.org/skincancer.