The skin plays a very important role in our health: protect organs from injury and musculoskeletal systems; regulate body temperature, creating a barrier against bacteria and viruses, and more. It is clear that keeping your skin healthy is an important part of remaining healthy overall. Unfortunately, most of us often neglect to provide our largest organ full of care needed.
The consequences of this neglect can be far worse than cosmetic deficiencies. Each year, more than one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the U.S., so the most common form of cancer. This disease can have complex causes, including genetic variables, so it is not always completely preventable. However, there are steps you can take that will reduce your chances of developing the painful condition.
Who is at Risk?
Your skin can be damaged by ultraviolet radiation, or UV light, which is found in sunlight and other forms of radiation, including tanning beds. Anyone can develop cancer of the lighting for this radiation, but some people are at higher risk than others. You may be at increased risk for this disease if you:
Taking certain medications (your doctor or pharmacist should inform the risk)
Have pale skin or light-colored hair
Suffering from lupus or related autoimmune diseases
Having a family history of melanoma or other forms of skin cancer
Spend much time outdoors in bright sunlight
Excessive use of tanning beds or unsafe
Having many moles, especially if they are large or irregular
If any of these risk factors apply to you, it's important to talk to your doctor about maintaining good health.
Basic Prevention Tips
Whether you are in a high risk group or not, taking care of your skin is always a good idea. A quick and simple way to lower your chances of developing melanoma or other cancers include:
Remain closed, especially in the middle of the afternoon when the sun is most intense. Hats, sunglasses, and loose, breathable clothing can help you stay comfortable and safe. If you go out in the sun, be sure to use high-quality sunscreen and reapply at least every two hours.
Try to avoid tanning beds, UV lamps and other tanning devices. If you insist on using a product like this, follow the instructions carefully. Do not overdo it.
Conduct self-examination at least three or four times a year. Look for changes in freckles or moles, or unexplained changes in the appearance of your skin. If you find changes, contact your doctor immediately.
The consequences of this neglect can be far worse than cosmetic deficiencies. Each year, more than one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the U.S., so the most common form of cancer. This disease can have complex causes, including genetic variables, so it is not always completely preventable. However, there are steps you can take that will reduce your chances of developing the painful condition.
Who is at Risk?
Your skin can be damaged by ultraviolet radiation, or UV light, which is found in sunlight and other forms of radiation, including tanning beds. Anyone can develop cancer of the lighting for this radiation, but some people are at higher risk than others. You may be at increased risk for this disease if you:
Taking certain medications (your doctor or pharmacist should inform the risk)
Have pale skin or light-colored hair
Suffering from lupus or related autoimmune diseases
Having a family history of melanoma or other forms of skin cancer
Spend much time outdoors in bright sunlight
Excessive use of tanning beds or unsafe
Having many moles, especially if they are large or irregular
If any of these risk factors apply to you, it's important to talk to your doctor about maintaining good health.
Basic Prevention Tips
Whether you are in a high risk group or not, taking care of your skin is always a good idea. A quick and simple way to lower your chances of developing melanoma or other cancers include:
Remain closed, especially in the middle of the afternoon when the sun is most intense. Hats, sunglasses, and loose, breathable clothing can help you stay comfortable and safe. If you go out in the sun, be sure to use high-quality sunscreen and reapply at least every two hours.
Try to avoid tanning beds, UV lamps and other tanning devices. If you insist on using a product like this, follow the instructions carefully. Do not overdo it.
Conduct self-examination at least three or four times a year. Look for changes in freckles or moles, or unexplained changes in the appearance of your skin. If you find changes, contact your doctor immediately.