Did you know 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70?3 Fortunately, the majority of skin cancers are treatable, even melanoma when identified early. I am going to discuss the different types of skin cancer, risk factors, prevention strategies, and screening recommendations.
4 Types of Skin Cancer:
- Basal cell carcinoma- most common form of skin cancer and generally very treatable/curable by surgical intervention.
- Squamous cell carcinoma- second most common form of skin cancer and again very treatable.
- Melanoma- depending when it is diagnosed, the disease can also be curable! However, aggressive forms and late stage melanoma are notoriously difficult to treat. Unlike the other skin cancers, melanoma is likely to appear just about anywhere, including those areas never exposed to sunlight.
- Merkel cell carcinoma- This form of skin cancer is rare and very aggressive.
Risk Factors
- Sunlight/UV exposure
- Age
- Family history (particularly with melanoma)
- Fair skin
- Light eyes
- Blonde or red hair
How to Prevent Skin Cancer
Having a sunburn >5 times doubles your risk for melanoma3!
- Wear protective clothing (long sleeves/pants, hat, sunglasses)
- Broad spectrum sunscreen (protecting against UV A and B) with an SPF >30
- Reapply sunscreen frequently during outdoor activities, particularly when swimming and/or sweating
- Minimize time outdoors when UV rays are at their peak (between 10 AM and 2 PM)
- Avoid UV tanning booths
Skin Cancer Screening Recommendations
The US Preventative Task Force (USPTF) has determined that there is not sufficient evidence to make a recommendation about adults receiving skin cancer screenings from a health care provider.5 Please note they do not recommend against screening.
“The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to serve as their own health advocate by regularly conducting skin self-exams. Individuals who notice any new spots on their skin, any spots that look different from the others, or anything changing, itching or bleeding, should see a board-certified dermatologist.”1
Other sources recommend skin cancer screenings by a dermatologist if you have any of the following:
- Family history of melanoma
- Many moles, particularly atypical moles
- Precancerous lesions in areas exposed to sun
- Personal history of basal or squamous cell carcinoma
ABCDE Rule– a tool that may be useful in identifying whether a spot should be referred to a specialist
- A= Asymmetrical
- B= Border- irregular border
- C= Color- not uniform in color
- D= Diameter- >1/4 inch or 6 mm
- E= Evolving- changing over time
In Conclusion
Skin cancer is a common form of cancer resulting in not only personal deficits but significant national financial burden. Therefore, it is important to identify the causes and mitigate risk factors when possible. Risk increases with UV exposure, age, family history, and fair skin, light eyes, and blonde/red hair characteristics. Preventing sun damage is of utmost importance. Current screening recommendations emphasize the importance of self screening, identifying spots early, and referral to a dermatologist when indicated. Fortunately, most skin cancers are treatable and even curable when diagnosed in the early stages! Remember it is prudent to serve as your own health advocate. Awareness is the first step.
Lindsey, PharmD, BCPS
References
1Cronin, T. (2023, April 18). AAD statement on USPSTF Recommendation on skin cancer screening. American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/news/aad-statement-uspstf-cancer-screeening
2Pietrangelo, A. (2022, February 10). ABCDE rule for skin cancer: What it means and how to use it. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-cancer/abcd-rule-for-skin-cancer#how-its-used
3Skin cancer facts & statistics. The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2024, February 6). https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/
4Skin Cancer. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (2024). https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/skin/screening-guidelines-skin
5US Preventive Services Taskforce. (2023, April 18). Skin cancer: Screening. US Preventive Services Taskforce. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/skin-cancer-screening
4 responses to “Skin Protection and Cancer Prevention”
Thanks so much for expounding on this topic! Regarding sunscreen – I’ve always purchased SPF of 30 and nothing higher. Somewhere I thought I read an SPF over 30 wasn’t proven as being any better. Is 70 better than 50 better than 30? Thanks again!
Perfect timing on skin cancer subject! Everyone should be aware of the dangers of too much sun and not enough sun screen. In my younger days I was guilty of that very thing. Never leave house without putting it on skin now. Another great article!
Totally agree. Many of us are guilty of wanting that sunkissed glow without fully understanding the risks. Hopefully this article will help some understand the importance of protecting our skin.
Perfect timing on skin cancer subject! Everyone should be aware of the dangers of too much sun and not enough sun screen. In my younger days I was guilty of that very thing. Never leave house without putting it on skin now. Another great article!