Knowledge Network
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The two most common types of skin cancer -- basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas -- are highly curable. However, melanoma, the third most common skin cancer, is more dangerous. From 65 to 90 percent of melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
Risk Factors
People with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop skin cancer. Risk factors vary for different types of skin cancer, but some general risk factors are having
- A lighter natural skin color.
- Family history of skin cancer.
- A personal history of skin cancer.
- Exposure to the sun through work and play.
- A history of sunburns early in life.
- A history of indoor tanning.
- Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun.
- Blue or green eyes.
- Blond or red hair.
- Certain types and a large number of moles.
Prevention
Protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation is important all year round, not just during the summer or at the beach. The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. daylight savings time (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time) are the most hazardous for UV exposure outdoors in the United States.
CDC recommends easy options for protection from UV radiation"
- Seek shade, especially during midday hours.
- Wear clothing to protect exposed skin.
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears, and neck.
- Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays as possible.
- Use sunscreen with sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB protection.
- Avoid indoor tanning.
Vitalogy SkinCare specializes in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Dermatology, Dermatological Surgery, Dermatopathology, Anti-Aging, Cosmetic and Clinical Medical Skincare procedures. Vitalogy SkinCare serves the Bastrop, Burnet, Cedar Park, Dripping Springs, Georgetown, Horseshoe Bay, Marble Falls and San Marcos communities.
Source: CDC, National Cancer Institute
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