As summer approaches, health officials are emphasizing the importance of sun safety, noting that skin cancer is a prevalent health concern, affecting as many as one in five Americans during their lifetime. Even as sunscreen is a crucial component of protection, experts stress a multi-faceted approach is necessary to guard against ultraviolet (UV) radiation and potential skin damage.
Skin cancer manifests in various forms, with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) being the most common, accounting for 80% of diagnoses in the U.S., according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. BCC often appears as a translucent, skin-colored bump with a shiny appearance, or a small pink patch prone to bleeding. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most frequent type, typically presents as a firm, red bump with a crusty center, sometimes resembling a sore that doesn’t heal. Melanoma, though less common, representing only 1% of skin cancer cases, is the most dangerous due to its potential to metastasize.
Dermatologists recommend using the “ABCDE” rule to identify potential melanomas: Asymmetry (irregular shape), Border (scalloped or poorly defined edges), Color (varied shades), Diameter (greater than 6 millimeters, though smaller melanomas can occur), and Evolution (changes in size, shape, or color). Melanoma can likewise appear as a black or brown streak in a nail, though this is rare.
Exposure to ultraviolet rays is the primary cause of skin cancer, according to Dr. Alice Zhou, an assistant professor of oncology at Washington University in St. Louis. While individuals with lighter skin tones are at higher risk, Dr. Zhou cautioned against the misconception that those with darker skin tones are immune. “Darker skinned people can still get a sunburn, still get skin cancers and definitely still get photoaging from UV exposure,” stated a dermatologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Other risk factors include a family history of skin cancer, the employ of tanning beds, chronic inflammation, and a weakened immune system. Rare forms of skin cancer, such as Merkel cell carcinoma and Kaposi sarcoma, can also be driven by viral infections.
Skin cancer can develop in areas of the body not typically exposed to the sun. Acral melanoma, a subtype, often appears on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and is particularly prevalent among individuals with darker skin tones. Melanoma can also occur in mucosal areas like the mouth, eyes, and genitals.
Preventative measures extend beyond sunscreen use. Experts recommend wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak UV hours. When using sunscreen, it should be broad spectrum with an SPF of at least 30, and reapplied every two hours. Choosing a mineral-based sunscreen is also advised. Still, experts caution against relying solely on sunscreen for protection.
Early detection is key to successful treatment. Any new or changing spots or moles should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
