Dark Green Leafy Vegetables And Dark Red Fruits Help Prevent Skin Cancer

According to recent statistics the rising incidence of skin cancer is one of the main problems in United States. Considering that this condition appears to be becoming an epidemic, very critical is to develop new approaches to primary and secondary prevention. As consequences we can see many studies exploring the therapeutic value of natural ingredients and researches suggest that common fruit and vegetables extracts may have an important clinical benefits in lowering risk for skin cancer. It is well-known that fruits and vegetables contain a variety of minerals and vitamins and other bioactive substances that include lutein, flavonoids, folic acid, vitamins C and E, and fiber. The folic acid has a key role in repair and synthesis of DNA, and all dark green leafy vegetables are very rich in it. So, new findings show with no doubt that higher intakes of green leafy vegetables may help prevent Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tumors among patients who have prior skin cancers. Another new finding is that pigment that gives certain fruits their dark red colors has an antioxidant activity higher than that of green tea and red wine. Researchers evaluated that pomegranate fruit extract (PFE) is capable of inhibiting conventional as well as new biomarkers of TPA-induced tumors and they may have chemopreventive action in a wide category of tumor models.

Ozone Depletion

Ozone depletion is a term used to describe two related phenomena concerning the earth's ozone layer. The first is the slow and constant deterioration of the amount of ozone in the earth's upper atmosphere at a rate of about 3 percent per decade. The second is the larger but seasonal decrease in the level of ozone in the atmosphere especially in the earth's Polar Regions, commonly called an ozone hole.
As we all know, the layer of ozone gas present in our atmosphere plays a very critical role in all chemical and biological process in our planet. Ozone filters out most of the very harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun and prevents radiation from reaching the earth's surface. Although, the levels of ozone in the atmosphere naturally rise and fall depending on factors such as altitude, temperature, and weather, the large amount of ozone lost in recent years cannot be attributed to natural factors alone.
Human-made chemicals and gases have a significant role in the phenomena of ozone depletion. Aerosols and Chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs, which are primarily used as propellant and as refrigerant, were found to be responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer. The depletion of the ozone layer poses a huge risk to all chemical and biological process on the earth's surface. Exposure to radiation, which would otherwise have been blocked by a "healthier" ozone layer, have various damaging effects on all living organisms on earth.
Because of this, there has been a continuing worldwide concern regarding the preservation of the ozone layer and the phasing out of ozone depleting substances (ODS). Countries and international communities have initiated actions towards the reduction of ODS and finding ways to curb the further depletion of the earth's vital ozone layer. A significant milestone in this effort was the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer held in 1987 which encouraged the phase-out and reduction of ozone depleting substances over a time frame of several years.

Photodynamic Therapy for Skin Cancer

There will be nearly 11,000 deaths from skin cancer in 2006 — about 8,000 from melanoma and 3,000 from other skin cancers, says the American Cancer Society.
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and accounts for almost half of all cancers in the United States. There are two types of skin cancer, nonmelanoma and melanoma.
U.S. doctors find more than 1 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer, usually in a patient´s basal cells or squamous cells. Exposing skin — the face, ear, neck, lips, and the backs of the hands — to the sun causes most nonmelanoma skin cancer. While they can grow fast or slow, they rarely spread to other parts of the body.
The second kind, melanoma does spread to other areas of the body making it more dangerous. It accounts for just a small percentage of skin cancer, but it causes most skin cancer deaths. Melanoma is a cancer that begins in the pigment cells that produce the skin coloring (melanin) which helps protect deeper layers of the skin from the sun´s harmful rays. Detected early, melanoma is almost always curable.
Photodynamic therapy
Both nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancers respond to photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatment for skin cancer that combines a light source and a photosensitizing agent (a drug that is activated by light) to destroy cancer cells. It´s sometimes called photoradiation therapy, phototherapy or photochemotherapy and is useful when there are several lesions on the skin or scalp.
A photosensitizing agent, for example fluorouracil, spread on the skin makes PDT work, because the agent collects more readily in cancer cells than in normal cells. Exposing the agent to light makes it react with oxygen to create chemicals that can kill a skin cancer cell. However, the approved light sources can only penetrate a limited depth of tissue; therefore doctors mainly use PDT to treat areas on or just under the skin. It´s less effective for treating large tumors, because the light cannot pass deep into the tumors. Because it´s a localized treatment, doctors don´t use PDT to treat skin cancer that has metastasized.
Doctors sometimes use PDT in precancerous treatments. It usually needs pre-approval by a healthcare provider. Just because the treatment is in the facial area, case managers shouldn´t assume it´s a cosmetic treatment. Check to see the patient´s age, if the patient is over 60 years old, the case is probably not cosmetic. Also, look at the chart to see if there are multiple lesions on the skin or scalp, usually three or more.
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What You Need To Know When Choosing and Using Sunscreen

Know the Ingredients
This can be divided into compounds that physically block radiation or compounds that absorb radiation.
The radiation blockers are very effective at reducing the exposure of the skin to both UVA and UVB radiation.
Older formulations like zinc oxide are opaque and may be cosmetically unacceptable.
However, a newer formulation of micronized titanium dioxide is not as opaque and provides excellent protection.
The radiation absorbing ingredients are differentiated by the type of radiation they absorb - UVA absorbers and UVB absorbers.
- Picking the Proper Sunscreen
The SPF measures the amount of UVB absorption, but there is no method of reporting the UVA absorption.
The only way to determine if a sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB radiation is to look at the ingredients.
A good broad-spectrum should have an SPF of at least 15 and contain avobenzone, titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide.
- Proper Application When You Wear Sunscreen
Most people wear sunscreen improperly by not applying enough. They apply only 25% to 50% of the recommended amount.
It should be applied liberally enough to all sun-exposed areas that it forms a film when initially applied.
It takes 20-30 minutes for it to be absorbed by the skin, so it should be applied at least a half an hour before going out in the sun.
It should also be the last product applied especially on the face since some it can break down in the presence of water contained in water-based foundations and moisturizers.
- Reapplying Sunscreen
Most instructions on product labels recommend reapplying "frequently", but the definition of "frequently" is vague.
A common instruction is to reapply after 2-4 hours in the sun.
However, one study has shown that reapplying 20 to 30 minutes after being in the sun is more effective than waiting 2 hours.
It is possible that this time period is more effective because most people do not apply enough initially, and this second application approximates the actual amount needed.
Reapplication should also be done after swimming, excessive sweating, or toweling.
- Daily Application
Sunscreen should be applied daily. The daily use of one with low SPF(15) has been shown to be more effective in preventing skin damage than the intermittent use of a higher SPF one.
- Sunscreen and Insect Repellents
Insect repellents reduce the SPF by up to one-third. When using both together, wear sunscreen with a higher SPF and reapply it more often.

Skin Cancer: Questions & Answers

The two most common kinds of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. (Carcinoma is cancer that begins in the cells that cover or line an organ.) Basal cell carcinoma accounts for more than 90 percent of all skin cancers in the United States. It is a slow-growing cancer that seldom spreads to other parts of the body.
Another type of cancer that occurs in the skin is melanoma, which begins in the melanocytes. Although anyone can get skin cancer, the risk is greatest for people who have fair skin that freckles easily--often those with red or blond hair and blue or light-colored eyes.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. Artificial sources of UV radiation, such as sunlamps and tanning booths, can also cause skin cancer.
The risk of developing skin cancer is affected by where a person lives. People who live in areas that get high levels of UV radiation from the sun are more likely to get skin cancer. In the United States, for example, skin cancer is more common in Texas than it is in Minnesota, where the sun is not as strong. Worldwide, the highest rates of skin cancer are found in South Africa and Australia, areas that receive high amounts of UV radiation.
In addition, skin cancer is related to lifetime exposure to UV radiation. Most skin cancers appear after age 50, but the sun's damaging effects begin at an early age. Therefore, protection should start in childhood to prevent skin cancer later in life
[Questions & Answers] Q: When Do I need to protect myself from sun exposure? A: Protection from sun exposure is important all year round, not just during the summer or at the beach. Any time the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are able to reach the earth, you need to protect yourself from excessive sun exposure.
UV rays can cause skin damage during any season or temperature. Relatively speaking, the hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight savings time (9 a.m. - 3 p.m. during standard time) are the most hazardous for UV exposure in the continental United States. UV radiation is the greatest during the late spring and early summer in North America.
Remember: UV rays reach you on cloudy and hazy days, as well as on bright and sunny days. UV rays will also reflect off any surface like water, cement, sand, and snow.
Q: How can I protect myself from the sun's UV rays? A: When possible, avoid outdoor activities during midday, when the sun's rays are strongest.This usually means the hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
You can also wear protective clothing,such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants.For eye protection, wear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV ray protection. And always wear a broad-spectrum (protection against both UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen and lipscreen with at least SPF 15.
Remember to reapply as indicated by the manufacturer's directions. Also, check the sunscreen's expiration date. Sunscreen without an expiration date has a shelf life of no more than three years. Exposure to extreme temperatures can shorten the expiration date or shelf life of sunscreen.
Q: What does a suntan indicate? Why does the skin tan when exposed to the sun? A: The penetration of UV rays to the skin's inner layer results in the production of more melanin. That melanin eventually moves toward the outer layers of the skin and becomes visible as a tan.
A suntan is not an indicator of good health. Some physicians consider the skin's tanning a response to injury because it appears after the sun's UV rays have killed some cells and damaged others.
Q: Does it matter what kind of sunscreen I use? A: Sunscreens come in a variety of forms such as lotions, gels, and sprays, so there are plentyof different options. There are also sunscreens made for specific purposes, such as the scalp, sensitive skin, and for use on babies. Regardless of the type of sunscreen you choose, be sure that you use one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays and that it offers at least SPF 15.
Q: What does a sunscreen's SPF rating mean? A: Sunscreens are assigned a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) number according to their effectiveness in offering protection from UV rays. Higher numbers indicate more protection. As a rule of thumb, you should always use a sunscreen with at least SPF 15.
Q: Do sunscreens need to be reapplied during the course of a day? A: You should follow the manufacturer's directions regarding reapplication or you risk not getting the protection that you might think you are getting. Though recently developed sunscreens are more resistant to loss through sweating and getting wet than previous sunscreens were, you should still reapply frequently, especially during peak sun hours or after swimming or sweating.
Q: What kinds of clothing best protect my skin from UV rays? A: Clothing that covers your skin protects against the sun's UV rays. Loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and long pants made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection. A wet t-shirt offers you much less UV protection than does a dry one.
If wearing this type of clothing isn't practical, at least try to wear a t-shirt or a beach cover-up. Keep in mind, however, that a typical t-shirt actually has an SPF rating substantially lower than the recommended SPF 15, so double-up on protection by using sunscreen with at least SPF 15 (and UVA and UVB protection) and staying in the shade when you can.
Q: It gets so hot here in the summer, there's no way I could be comfortable in long pants and along-sleeved shirt. So, what else can I do to protect my skin? A: Protecting yourself from the sun's UV rays doesn't have to be a major chore; it's just a matter of knowing your options and using them. Wearing a dry t-shirt is a good start, but it is not enough if you are going to be outside for more than a few minutes.
If you can't wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, you can boost your protection by seeking shade whenever possible and by always wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 15.
Q: Will a hat help protect my skin? Are there recommended styles for the best protection? A: Hats can help shield your skin from the sun's UV rays. Choose a hat that provides shade for all of your head and neck. For the most protection, wear a hat with a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears, and the back of your neck.
If you choose to wear a baseball cap, you should also protect your ears and the back of your neck by wearing clothing that covers those areas, using sunscreen with at least SPF 15, or by staying in the shade. The amount of shade offered by a particular hat appears to be its most important prevention characteristic. If a darker hat is an option, though, it may offer even more UV protection.
Q: Are sunglasses an important part of my sun protection plan? A: Yes. Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. They also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.
Q: What type of sunglasses best protects my eyes from UV rays? A: Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection. The majority of sunglasses sold in the United States, regardless of cost, meet this standard. Wrap-around sunglasses work best because they block UV rays from sneaking in from the side.
Q: Is there any particular time I should try to stay in the shade? A: The sun's UV rays are strongest and do the most damage during midday, so it's best to avoid direct exposure between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. You can reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter before you need relief from the sun.
Q: I work outdoors all summer and can't stay in the shade. What can I do to protect my skin? A: If you can't avoid the sun, you can protect your skin by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, wraparound sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants.
You can also wear a sunscreen and lipscreen with at least SPF 15 and UVA and UVB protection and reapply according to the manufacturer's directions. When you can, take your breaks and your lunch in the shade.
Q: If I stay in the shade, should I still use sunscreen and wear a hat? A: UV rays can reflect off virtually any surface (including sand, snow and concrete) and can reach you in the shade. Your best bet to protect your skin and lips is to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you're outside --- even when you're in the shade.
[Skin Self-Exam] You can improve your chances of finding skin cancer promptly by performing a simple skin self-exam regularly.
The best time to do this self-exam is after a shower or bath. You should check your skin in a well-lighted room using a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror. It's best to begin by learning where your birthmarks, moles, and blemishes are and what they usually look like. Check for anything new--a change in the size, texture, or color of a mole, or a sore that does not heal. Check all areas, including the back, the scalp, between the buttocks, and the genital area.
1. Look at the front and back of your body in the mirror, then raise your arms and look at the left and right sides.
2.Bend your elbows and look carefully at your palms; forearms, including the undersides; and the upper arms.
3. Examine the back and front of your legs. Also look between your buttocks and around your genital area.
4. Sit and closely examine your feet, including the soles and the spaces between the toes.
5. Look at your face, neck, and scalp. You may want to use a comb or a blow dryer to move hair so that you can see better.
By checking your skin regularly, you will become familiar with what is normal. If you find anything unusual, see your doctor right away. Remember, the earlier skin cancer is found, the better the chance for cure.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

The most common form of cancer in humans is skin cancer. There are over one million cases annually, although not all are reported. Cases of skin cancer has continually risen, this raises concerns over public health. Almost half of Americans that reach retirement age will develop skin cancer at some point.
A common indicator of skin cancer is new growths or sores that will not heal. There are three different types of skin cancer. squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma also known as carcinoma epithelioma, melanoma. Of these basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common. These are examples of non melanoma cancers. Because of its ability to rapidly spread, melanoma is regarding as a very dangerous form of cancer.
More than 90% of skin cancer cases in the U.S. are Basal Cell Carcinoma. This type of cancer causes damage by invading the surrounding cells. It is usually not life threatening. People with fair complexions are at greater risks of developing basal cell carcinomas. Basal cell carcinomas cancer can form any where on the body. Skin cancer is also more common in areas where the UV rays of the sun are stronger. An example of this would be Florida having a higher rate than Michigan.
The appearance begins as a small bump, often appearing to have a pearly texture. These bumps often grow slowly taking years to become large.
General treatment consists of performing a biopsy. The goal of the doctor is to remove the entire infected area, sometimes this may require a few stitches. In most cases this is done right in the doctors office. Another form of treatment is freezing called Cryosurgery.

Bikini and Sun Lovers Beware

"It is becoming more and more important that all sun lovers take precautions to avoid excessive exposure to the sun's harmful rays. Following are some tips to make your sun worshipping both enjoyable and safer."
Many family traditions include a yearly visit to the beach. Tucked away in our memories are the smell of coconut oil, the warmth of the sun and sand mixed with cool beach breezes. However, gone are the days of baby oil and metal sun reflectors, replaced with safer sun practices to preserve our natural skin color and condition. Sun protection comes in a variety of options to include sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, sun protective swimwear and cover-ups.
An important part of your beach planning will be your sun protection. Sun tanning and trips to your local tanning salon aren’t the best idea anymore. That’s because both emit harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can cause painful sunburn and may eventually lead to skin blemishes, premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye problems, weakened immune system and skin cancer. And if the Earth’s ozone layer continues to deplete and the approximate rate of four to six percent per decade there will be more UV radiation reaching our skin.
It is true that light skin is more susceptible to sun damage, however darker skinned people such as African Americans and Hispanic Americans can be affected. Everyone should be educated about the affects of the sun and the steps needed to safer sun exposure.
The easiest way to protect you from the sun is simply by avoiding the sun; the sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 3pm. Cloudy days may be deceiving as the clouds only block about twenty percent of UV radiation, this is also true when swimming in the water (the UV rays can still reach you).
If you are going to be out in the sun in your bikinis or swimsuits, either sunscreen or sunblock should be used. Both sunscreen and sunblock come in creams, lotions, ointments, gels or wax sticks, and when applied to the skin will reflect, absorb or scatter either all or at least some of the sun’s harmful rays. Currently on the market are some makeup items containing sunscreen (lipstick being one example). Sunscreen products are believed to block a large percentage of harmful UV radiation. The FDA requires that any label of sunscreen products state the sun protection factor (SPF), the higher the number the longer a person is able to stay in the sun before burning. It is recommended to wear at least a sunscreen with SPF 15, the product should also be applied liberally 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. The sunscreen should be applied to all areas of skin that will be exposed to include; lips, ears, eyelids (be careful not to get in eyes), neck, nose, scalp (for those with thinning hair), feet, and hands. Children under 6 months should not wear sunscreen (covering their skin is the best bet against sun exposure), as they might be too sensitive to the ingredients. Sunscreen should become a regular habit for children whenever going outdoors.
Sunglasses are a very important part of sun protection. Not only do sunglasses help us see in the glaring sun, but also protect our eyes from sun damage. Price doesn’t matter as long as the glasses are blocking ninety-nine to one hundred percent of UVA and UVB radiation (it should say on the label). Try and select sunglasses that protect your eyes from all angles, a large framed wraparound style is suggested. Don’t forget to put sunglasses on your children as well; they can start wearing sunglasses as early as one year old. It is important to purchase real protective sunglasses for children, not toy sunglasses. Even if you’re wearing sunglasses you might want to put some sunscreen on your eyelids (be careful not to get the sunscreen in you’re eyes), as the sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays not the skin around the eyes.
Hats are an easy and fashionable ways to protect you’re eyes, ears, nose, neck and scalp from the sun. Try and purchase a hat with a three- inch brim all the way around the hat if possible. There are such a wide variety of hats available in styles ranging from lovely straw hats with wide brims, to cotton hats with brims and baseball caps (some with material draping down the sides and back if desired).
Another popular form of sun protection is available in the sun protective swimwear and cover-ups. This swimwear covers the areas of the body most sensitive to sunburn, giving effective sun protection. The swimwear comes in styles similar to a t-shirt with adjoining shorts, and is a great idea especially for children. The swimwear and cover-ups boast a SPF 50 (highest rating for fabric) and most often offers approximately ninety-eight percent sunblock, the nylon-lycra mix is lightweight and fast- drying. There are also sunsuits combined with buoyancy aids (another great idea for children). The sun protective swimwear, t-shirts, cover-ups and hats are available in babies, children and adult sizes. Although the protective swimwear is quite popular it has yet to be approved by the FDA.
Cover-ups should be worn whenever possible if out in the sun. A cover-up can include any lightweight, loose-fitting, long sleeved shirts, skirts, pants or robes that provide protection from the sun. There are toweling robes manufactured that serve both as a towel and a cover-up after swimming. Almost all materials and colors absorb or reflect the sun’s harmful UV rays. However it must be noted that it is suggested to avoid wearing wet clothing in the sun, as the sun’s rays can much more easily pass through wet clothing.
It is important to avoid artificial tanning as much as possible. It has long been a belief that the ultraviolet (UV) rays from tanning beds are harmless as they emit mostly UVA rays and barely any UVB the rays considered to be most hazardous. However it has been found that UVA rays may be the cause of the most serious forms of skin cancer (melanoma). This is scary considering some people use the tanning beds all year long, thus increasing their exposure to the harmful rays at an alarming rate.
An alternative to a real tan may come in one of the self-tanning products available on the market. Self-tanning products are sold in tanning pills, sunless tanning lotions and sprays, cosmetic bronzers and extenders and tanning pills. Through a bit of trial and error you can usually find a product that will produce a desired look from a subtle glow to a deep dark tan. Caution should also be exercised with these self-tanning products. In particular the tanning pills that use carotenoid color additives which are approved as additives for coloring food but not for use in tanning pills, if consumed in high levels they may be harmful. The tanning accelerators using tyrosine have not been FDA approved and should also be used minimally. The bronzers and extenders use color additives that are approved by the FDA and because they wash or wear off quite quickly are quite safe.
Although it’s important to practice caution while being out and about in the sun, your day at the beach or lake can still be a wonderful experience. We just have to take a more careful approach to our sun seeking ways to ensure our future health. So pack away your coconut oil and reflectors, replacing them with sunscreen and great sun protective hats and cover-ups.

Sunburn, UV Overexposure & Skin Cancer: Prevention or Cure?

Overexposure to the sun and UV rays is rarely obvious at the time, -- and on many occasions, probably quite unintentional. However repeated exposure has rather more adverse long-term implications for our bodies and our health.
We’re all well aware of the more obvious and painful symptoms of sunburn including hot, red, tender skin – which in the case of a more heavy burn can also include blistering, peeling and dehydration.
The damage that occurs beneath the skin as a result of sunburn is considerably ‘less obvious’ at the time of exposure, and may in fact take years to produce symptoms visible to the naked eye.
The fact that damage caused to skin cells during sunburn can not only accelerate the aging process, but also increase the risk of cataracts and skin cancer, should certainly demand our attention.
When faced with the potential risk of having to treat more than just the temporary symptoms and pain of sunburn, doesn’t it make more sense to avoid the risk in the first place?
Seek prevention rather than cure!
So before you venture out into the sun again, remember these important tips to protect yourself from overexposure of UV rays and sunburn, and its associated risks:
1. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeve shirt and a hat. Consider the ‘additional’ protection of an umbrella or shade where appropriate.
2. Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 3 pm if at all possible.
3. Remember that UV rays are present even on cloudy days.
4. Remember that sunlight is strongly reflected from sand, snow, ice, water and concrete, which can intensify your direct sunlight exposure.
5. Apply sunscreen containing a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun.
6. Reapply sunscreen at regular intervals while out in the sun, especially if you are perspiring heavily or swimming.
7. Remember that UV overexposure is not limited to ‘sun exposure’. Sunburn can also occur as a result of UV exposure from other sources including tanning beds/lamps, welding arcs etc.
Prevention is a far better treatment than cure. In the event however, that you discover any unusual moles or growths on your skin – (particularly if they’re irregular in shape, bleed, itch, or appear to be changing) - consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
When it comes to overexposure of UV rays and sunburn that result in skin cancer, early detection will certainly assist in providing you with more effective treatment. But considering your options beforehand – what will provide the best outcome for your health? Prevention or Cure? I know which one I’d choose...!

Skin Cancer Detection and Protection

Why get naked? Skin cancer, is one reason. That’s right, it’s important to regularly look your body over for detection. Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the U.S., with nearly one million new cases each year. Undiagnosed, it can cause serious problems.
Basal cell and squamous cell cancers are the most common, but melanoma is the most deadly. Melanoma is responsible for over seven thousand deaths a year and the incidence is increasing rapidly. Melanoma is now the number one cancer in younger women and second only to breast cancer in women over the age of 30. White and fair skin people are at the greatest risk. However, skin cancer is deadlier among African-Americans, Hispanics and Asians, even though their risk is less.
Most skin cancer is preventable. But it requires staying out of the sun as much as possible. If you’re going to be exposed, be certain to cover up. Wear a hat that shades your face and both the front and back of your neck, plus a long sleeve shirt and full length pants to cover arms and legs.
Also, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply it throughout the day - especially after swimming or sweating. Be sure to get new sunscreen each year, because last year’s is no longer effective. And, definitely avoid tanning booths, since they’ve been shown to increase your risk.
A diet rich in carotenoid fruits and vegetables plus a high quality carotenoid supplement can also help protect against skin cancer. Carotenoids are the phytonutrient factors in certain plants that help protect them from sun damage. Luckily, it can do the same for you. But, you still need to get naked. Take your clothes off and look yourself over for changes in skin. It’s an important habit for protecting yourself from skin cancer. And, always be sure to check out those hard to see places like your back, buttocks, bottom of feet and top of your head. Maybe a friend can help!