Avoiding skin cancer may seem simple, since its first signs are visible, but to achieve this it is necessary to know its causes and understand what the main risk factors are. One of the most widespread recommendations made by experts is to avoid sunburn.
In this regard, Dr. Susana Puig reminds us that we should never reach the point of becoming red because red skin is burned skin.
On the other hand, we should avoid accumulating too many hours because this does not allow our mechanisms to repair the damage produced by ultraviolet light. The dermatologist advises us to use shades, appropriate clothing and of course if we are going to be outdoors or do outdoor activities also use photoprotectors.
Other recommendations that should be followed to prevent skin cancer are:
- Be careful with reflective surfaces such as snow, sand and water.
- Use sunscreen with a protection index between 30 and 50.
- Have annual dermatological check-ups.
What are the main risk factors?
As for risk factors, there are some that increase the risk of skin cancer and should be taken into account in order to follow the above-mentioned recommendations more precisely.
- History of melanoma.
- Sunburns, especially during childhood.
- Atypical moles or moles of irregular appearance.
- Skin with multiple moles.
Early detection
We are diagnosing cases earlier and earlier, and we also have effective treatments for advanced cases. But prevention is always the best, avoiding sunburn, especially in children, and avoiding accumulating hours of sun. All this prevents skin cancer.
It is essential that everyone can monitor the evolution of their moles and can do so by following the ABCDE mole rule. It consists of an internationally recognized system of self-examination based on the following guidelines:
- A. Asymmetry. It consists of verifying if the border of the mole is irregular or poorly defined. To achieve this, we divide the mole into two halves and observe them. If they are different we will conclude that it is asymmetrical.
- B. Borders. Similar to the previous step, but in this case we will observe the border of the mole to know if it is well or poorly defined. We will conclude that it is poorly defined if it is difficult to draw the edges with a line.
- C. Color. In this case the important thing is to observe if different colors are perceived within the place, instead of a uniform color. Malignant moles usually have several colors: gray, white, blue and even red.
- D Diameter. The mole is larger than 6 mm.
- E. Evolution. Pay attention to the mole and observe if it changes color, size or volume rapidly.
These simple tips will help us to control our moles, but this does not justify a visit to the dermatologist. In the presence of any suspicious mole, remember to go to the doctor for a more detailed examination.