skin cancer 7 warning signs You should never ignore

Early detection of skin cancer symptoms is key

one in every three cancers globally is now related to skin cancer, which is on the rise.

However, given the increasing prevalence of safe-sun programs and skin cancer awareness among the population, how is this possible?

The main reasons for this are improved methods of detecting skin cancer symptoms and people living longer than ever before. Skin Cancer Foundation president and New York City dermatologist Dr. Deborah S. According to Sarnoff, “The longer you live, the more likely you are to develop skin cancer.” The good news is that skin cancer is highly treatable if caught early.

Malignant melanoma and non-melanoma types comprise the majority of skin cancer cases; Non-melanoma forms, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), are

The most prevalent and form the majority of examples. Since cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure is the primary risk factor, skin cancer can develop with age, usually in areas of the body that receive the most sunlight.

“It covers the face, ears, scalp and neck,” explains dermatologist Dr. Claire Tate, who practices in Perth, Australia, which has the highest incidence of melanoma in the world, according to the World Cancer Research Fund International.

Innovative new treatments

Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer, yet making up just 1% of cases. It is also brought on by UV exposure (you double your risk if you have had five or more sunburns), but it can also arise from a genetic mutation that is inherited. Although melanoma often affects the chest, back, lower legs, head, and neck, it can also develop on parts of the body like the soles of your feet or beneath your nails that are not frequently exposed to the sun.

Because it can expand more into the skin or to other organs, making treatment more challenging, it is extremely hazardous.

However, there’s excellent news! Recently, Moderna and Merck, two pharmaceutical firms, completed an mRNA vaccination clinical study.

It has proven to be a successful melanoma therapy for advanced stages. Results released in December 2022 showed that the risk of death or recurrence in patients with stage 3 or stage 4 melanoma was reduced by 44% when the customized mRNA vaccine was given in addition to immunotherapy after the skin cancer was surgically removed. .

Vaccines, which have been the focus of decades of research into tailored cancer treatments, work by delivering a piece of genetic code, or instructions, to our cells, instructing them how to produce specific spike proteins for which the immune system is trained. According to Lakshya Sarnoff, “vaccination basically teaches the body’s immune system to recognize and respond to mutations in the DNA associated with a patient’s tumor.” A big one this year is intended to be a trial year.

As the disease has spread to other organs, late-stage melanoma has all too frequently proved fatal. “It’s very exciting and a great achievement,” she added. If approved, this vaccine could provide patients with advanced-stage melanoma, who are currently receiving immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug treatments, another option.

Check for skin cancer symptoms every three months

Prevention and early detection of skin cancer symptoms is your greatest line of defense. According to Sarnoff, melanoma that is still confined to the epidermis is 100% curable if detected early. It is important that you get to know your skin and pay attention to any changes in it as well as any moles that are present.

Try to do this once every three months, says Ann Cust, head of Cancer Council Australia’s skin cancer committee. “To help you monitor the locations you’re concerned about, consider taking pictures of them.”

According to Tate, you should ask a friend or your partner to look for signs of skin cancer on the scalp, back of the neck, buttocks and lower back where you might not notice it. Use a mirror and bright light. See a doctor if you notice any. It’s also a smart idea to get an annual checkup with a family doctor or dermatologist.

Skin Cancer Symptoms

Changes

Dermatologists have long advised looking for large moles (those measuring more than six millimeters or the size of the end of a pencil eraser), with irregularly shaped edges or changes in color.

As a general guideline, Sarnoff says, “Anything that’s new, changing, or unusual on your skin should be checked.”

You can learn a lot about your health from your skin. These additional skin changes are worth talking to your doctor about.

New moles or abnormalities

Keep an eye out for any new moles, freckles, or patches, especially if you’re over 25. Adults typically have 10 to 40 moles; Over 50 increases the risk of melanoma. Small red, pink, or white bumps can be BCCs, especially if they appear on areas of the skin that are most exposed to the sun, such as the palms, shoulders, neck, and face.

A freckle or a mole that’s changed

According to Tate, the doctor should examine every preexisting modified mole or freckle. According to her, “It may change in size, color or shape, or be painful or itchy.” “Obviously, none of these things can be skin cancer, but it’s still a good idea to get checked.”

A dry, scaly patch or a sore that won’t heal

Seek medical attention if sore throat or unusual rash does not clear up within three to four weeks. Sarnoff says, “If you have an area that is constantly itchy and itchy, and there’s a constant rash in the same area, that’s a red flag.” “Pay attention if you have an area that bleeds frequently without trauma, as this could be a sign of BCC,” adds Tate.

A pimple that won’t go away

According to Sarnoff, acne can last anywhere from a few days to three weeks. If your acne-like condition does not go away, it may be BCC or SCC.

Anything different from the rest

Moles and healthy freckles can have the same appearance. “If something looks like an outlier you should check it out,” Sarnoff advises. It may be slightly larger, darker, or taller than the rest, which are all flat. She advises following your gut when things don’t feel right.

Reducing your skin cancer risk

According to Tate, “sun protection becomes more important when the UV index is three or higher.” In summer, it is usually between 11 am and 3 pm. Throughout Europe and Canada. Most weather apps allow you to check the UV index for the day. Cust thinks you’ll still get enough vitamin D. “Most people can keep their vitamin D levels adequate by going outside for a short time each day.”

Individuals with fair complexions, blue eyes, and blonde hair, as well as those with a family history of melanoma and those who already have multiple moles, are more susceptible than others.

If that describes you, take extra care outside, Tate advises. Wear a hat, sunglasses, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and cover-up clothing. In addition be a shade seeker!