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The most convincing reason to use sunscreen lies in the fact that exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation causes approximately 90% of all skin cancers, premature aging, wrinkling, and leads to benign and precancerous growths. People most at risk for developing skin cancer are those with fair skin that always or easily burn, light hair, and light eyes. However, all ethnic groups and skin types can still be affected. A history of blistering sunburns as a child, the presence of many moles, family history of skin cancer, and previous skin cancers are factors that lead to increased risk for any individual. People who work outdoors, spend a lot of time outdoors, or live in sunny climates (i.e. Arizona) are also at increased risk. Tanning does not prevent skin cancer - it is still exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which can accumulate and cause damage over time. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and accounts for about 75% of all skin cancer. Warning signs include a sore that doesn’t heal, a reddish patch, a shiny bump, a pink growth with a dimple in the middle, or a scar-like waxy area. These lesions usually occur in sun exposed areas. This form of skin cancer very rarely metastasizes (spreads). Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for about 20% of lesions. These lesions start as actinic keratoses, red areas that may or may not dimple. It occurs in sun exposed areas including lips, tops of ears, hands, forearms, and noses. Approximately 15% of squamous cell lesions metastasize causing further complications. The most serious form of skin cancer is malignant melanoma. This form accounts for about 3% of all skin cancers. Malignant melanomas start as small brown or black marks looking very similar to moles. They can also develop from an existing mole. While malignant melanoma can be treated in the early stages, this form metastasizes early and can be fatal. The best way to catch skin cancer early is to check your skin regularly. You need to be looking for any changes in size, shape, texture, and color of existing moles or birthmarks. Skin discoloration and sores that don’t heal also need to be looked at closely. A good criteria for watching moles is to follow the ABCD rule; asymmetry, border, color, and diameter. Watch for moles that are asymmetrical, not having identical halves. Normal moles are round and symmetrical. Suspicious moles have uneven or jagged borders. Watch for moles with uneven color or ones that have changed color over time. Also, keep an eye on the diameter. If a mole is larger then a ¼ in diameter (the size of a pencil eraser) it should be examined. You need to make sure you check all of your skin including fingernails, soles of the feet, and between the toes. If anything appears different or strange be sure to check with a dermatologist. While skin cancer is a scary subject, the good news is that is can be prevented. The cornerstone of prevention is to block UV radiation and avoid getting burned. Some non-chemical ways of doing this are:
The Campus Health Center Pharmacy offers a variety of sunscreen products and the pharmacists can advise on the best type for you. Currently they carry 4 kinds ranging in price from $7.00-15.00. Two of the brands, Blue Lizard and Ombrelle contain a sunblock in them, have SPF of 30, cover all of the UVA and UVB spectrum, and are water resistant. Shade sunscreen has an SPF of 30, is waterproof, and covers all of the UVB spectrum and most of the UVA spectrum. The last product, Bull Frog, has an SPF of 18, is waterproof and covers all of the UVB spectrum and most of the UVA spectrum. If you have other questions or would like more information ask your doctor or pharmacist. Or check these websites:
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