Every year, more people United States are diagnosed with skin cancer than all other forms of cancer combined. While early detection is important in keeping skin cancer from becoming life-threatening, taking proper steps for prevention is key.
Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville reminds you that one of the best ways to prevent skin cancer is to protect yourself from the sun. Follow these tips to stay skin-safe:
- Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15
Wearing sunscreen, even if it looks cloudy outside, is one of the easiest yet often overlooked way of preventing skin cancer. Make sure that you opt for water-resistant sunscreen and you re-apply every 2 hours especially when you’re sweating or swimming.
- Cover up
Wear protective clothing like hats and sunglasses, especially when you plan to be outdoors between 10 AM and 3 PM – these are hours when the UVB rays are strongest.
- Seek shade
Seek shade when possible especially during the hours when sun’s rays are strongest. If you’re unsure about the sun’s intensity, take a shadow test. If your shadow is shorter than you, then the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Self-Examination
It’s best practice to do regular self-exams. Premier Surgical physicians stress that skin cancers that are detected early are almost always treatable.
When doing self-skin checks, take note of skin spots that are changing in color, size, and shape. Skin cancer usually take the following forms:
- Wax-like, pearly nodule
- Mole-like growths
- Sores that don’t heal
- Red and scaly outlined patches
See a specialist immediately if you notice any of these. Premier Surgical in Knoxville has well-experienced surgeons. Our healthcare team have years of experience in treating skin and other cancers.
To learn more, visit Premier Surgical’s Skin Cancer page.