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Importance of Skin Cancer Prevention in the Aging Process

Skin cancer prevention is consistently urged by dermatologists all over the United States and throughout the world. This is no surprise given that the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation reported more than one million Americans were diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in 2005.

Despite the medical evidence available on skin cancer, our society remains focused on tanning beds and sunbathing without using the proper protection. Those of us moving further along in the aging process are more susceptable to being diagnosed with skin cancer.

Forms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer comes in two forms, melanomas and non-melanomas. Melanomas usually account for only four percent of diagnosed skin cancers, but they are considered to be the most deadly. Melanomas occur in the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer, usually appearing as a dark mole with uneven edges. If detected early through skin cancer prevention, melanomas can be eliminated without causing harm. If ignored, these cancers can break away and spread to other parts of the body. Non-melanomas, on the other hand, are comprised of two different cell types, basal cells and squamous cells. Both of these cells are caused from sun exposure, but basal cells form in the lower epidermis while squamous cells form in the upper epidermis.

Tanning Bed Problems

For many individuals, avoiding the use of tanning beds is a necessary step to take when it comes to skin cancer prevention. The Food and Drug Administration explains that tanning beds are not safer than going out in the sun just because they emit only UVA rays. UVA rays have been linked to skin cancer and immune deficiencies. If you don’t use tanning beds on a regular basis, but enjoy lying in the sun by a pool or on a beach, you should use protective methods. This is especially the case if you are more susceptible to the risks of skin cancer. People with red or blonde hair and fair skin are automatically at a greater risk for skin cancer. Having freckles or skin that burns easily can also put you in harms way for skin cancer. Understanding your family history and knowing how high your risks are before stepping out into the sun is a crucial first step in preventing any kind of skin cancer.

Ravages of the Sun - Sunscreens

Sunscreen is recommended as a form of protection against the sun. The American Cancer Society urges the use of waterproof sunscreen that has an SPF15 or more of both UVA and UVB protection. You should also apply at least an ounce of sunscreen for your body twenty minutes before going out into the sun. Too often, individuals forget to re-apply their sunscreen after being exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays. Also be sure to avoid the sun during 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. because this is when the sun’s rays are most intense. Staying unprotected in the sun during this time is when you put yourself in the danger zone for damaging healthy skin cells.

Proper skin cancer prevention should be practiced by everyone in your family, even babies. Doctors recommend babies that are six months or younger stay out of the sun. Teaching your children to be sun smart is important for their health too. Find shady areas when you take them outside to play and be sure they have the proper protection on. Clothing is another way to protect yourself and your family from harmful rays. Wear hats that have wide brims to cover all areas of your neck, ears, eyes and scalp.

Skin cancer prevention does not mean you have to avoid the sun altogether. It just means you should be smart when you do go outside. Remembering to use a protective sunscreen all year is a great way to start your cancer prevention routine. Know your skin and any marks or freckles so you can recognize abnormalities that may develop. The sooner you start guarding yourself from harmful rays, the better you raise your chance of avoiding skin cancer.

Tags: age, aging population, Aging Process, melanoma, skin cancer, sunscreen, tanning beds