Sunday, December 13, 2009

Is There Any Way To Prevent Skin Cancer?

By Kathy Forcey

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. It is also a highly preventable and very treatable skin cancer. If you do all you can to reduce your risk of skin cancer and monitor your skin frequently you should have no trouble from the effects of skin cancer.

The first thing you should do is make sure that you stay out of the sun as much as possible. Stay in the shade and out of direct sunlight whenever possible. Use hats and clothing to keep your skin protected from the harmful effects of the sun.

You should realize that even on cloudy days, the ultra-violet rays from the sun can still reach you. Yes, even when it is cloudy, your skin can get burned. Swimming pools are not safe havens either. Your skin can get sunburned even when your body is in the water, and skin cancer could result in the future.

One of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer is to apply sunscreen. You should make sure to be wearing at least SPF 15 when in the sun, or stronger sunscreen depending on how easily you burn. Also, be sure to reapply after swimming, or if you are sweating heavily.

Children's skin is even more delicate than your own and therefore must be looked after carefully. However, it is important to remember that children who have not reached 6 months of age cannot wear sunscreen on their skin yet. With that in mind be sure to keep them out of direct sunlight at all times and remember to always keep their skin covered. Warn older children that prolonged unprotected exposure to the sun's harmful rays can eventually lead to skin cancer and that they would be safer in the shade.

Skin cancer can be treated but it is important for you to pay attention to any changes to existing growths or new abnormalities that appear suddenly. It is most important to watch for any changes like increase in size or irregular shapes. Watching for transparent or multicolored growths on you skin is a must. And furthermore, it you have any cuts or wounds that don't appear to be healing, consult your doctor promptly.

You should make it a point to have your skin checked on a regular basis when visiting a doctor. .Ensure that you examine your skin every month.This is one of the best ways of detecting skin cancer early. Make sure to be watchful of your skin and health,and if you develop any problems, consult a doctor for immediate treatment.

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