Steps You can Take to Help Prevent Skin Cancer

Most people are aware that skin cancer is a dangerous killer today. However, many of the cases of this disease were completely preventable. Many people ask does sunscreen prevent skin cancer. While this is an important step, you can also take steps to help prevent skin cancer by doing regular self checks and understanding what to look for. This article will give you a brief idea of what types of irregularities might signal a problem. By checking your skin monthly for these sorts of warning signs, you can help prevent skin cancer by stopping it before it begins.

The ABCDE Rule Might Help Prevent Skin Cancer

When you are performing self checks to help prevent skin cancer, you need to remember the ABCDE rule. These factors are all warning signs that you should have a mole checked by a professional. A stands for asymmetry, which means that when the mole is divided in half, it doesn’t look the same on both sides. B is a border that is blurry or not easily defined. C stands for the color of the mole, which should be checked if it changes or incorporates multiple colors. D is for diameter and E is for elevation. A mole that is larger than ¼ inch in diameter or raised above the skin’s surface should be checked by a doctor.

The Self Check Helps Prevent Skin Cancer

Once you know the warning signs to look for, you can help prevent skin cancer by performing checks on your own skin once a month. This allows you to identify new moles that have recently appeared or current moles that are changing size, shape or color. Any unusual findings should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible, since early detection and treatment means a better prognosis. The best way to perform your skin check to help prevent skin cancer is in front of a full length mirror, if possible.

When you perform your self check, take the time to examine every part of your body. This includes your buttocks, the bottoms of your feet and your scalp. Use a comb or blow dryer to move your hair around so you can get a good view of your scalp. If possible have someone else check your back, the nape of your neck and the back of your scalp to ensure you don’t miss anything. These regular self checks are one of the most effective ways to help prevent skin cancer and address any potential issues right away when treatment is easiest.

If you have a mole you are keeping an eye on, take a picture of it monthly to compare. If you notice the mole is changing in any way, contact your doctor. He may want to take a section of the mole or remove it completely to ensure there are no cancer cells hiding within. It is also a good idea for your doctor to perform a skin check once a year or more frequently if you fall into a high risk category. Taking control of your health will make all the difference in how effectively you can help prevent skin cancer.