According to the Skin Cancer Foundation and American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5
Americans will grow a skin cancer by age 70. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the
US. The number of people who grow a skin cancer increases every year. The good news is,
when skin cancer is diagnosed and treated early, the survival rate is 99 percent. There are three
main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma is the most common, squamous cell carcinoma
is the second most common and melanoma is the third most common.
Signs of skin cancer include spots that are irregularly shaped or have multiple colors, are
changing or not healing. Spots that don’t look or act like any other spots on your body are
suspicious for skin cancer. Early recognition of suspicious spots and getting your skin examined
by a healthcare professional are important steps to diagnosing skin cancer early.
Skin cancer can affect all ages and all types of skin color, even if you tan easily. Skin cancer can
grow anywhere on the body; however, skin cancers are more common in areas of sun
exposure. There are many ways you can protect your skin from the sun. The best way is to
cover up. UPF 50 (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing blocks 98 percent of the sun’s rays
from getting to your skin. Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV filtering/protective sunglasses.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is the next best way to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, studies have shown that using SPF 15 every day, can
decrease your chance of growing a non-melanoma skin cancer by 40 percent and a melanoma
by 50 percent. The best SPF is 30 or higher and broad-spectrum. Broad-spectrum means it will
protect you better from both ultraviolet (UV) A and B rays. Your SPF should have at least one of
the following ingredients: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone or ecamusol. Reapply your
SPF every 2 hours or less. UVA rays are able to penetrate windows and clouds so cover your
skin every day and during all four seasons. Be particularly careful, between 10am and 2pm.
The Brainerd Lakes Area offers many beautiful outdoor spaces and activities. Get outside and
be active, but don’t forget to cover up for healthier and younger looking skin.
For more information about skin cancer including prevention tips, risk factors, detection, and
treatment visit skincancer.org.
Submitted by Becky White, Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner
Dermatology Professionals
