Regional West has joined the annual “Your Skin Needs You” campaign, a statewide effort organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) to raise awareness of skin cancer screening during Ultraviolet (UV) Sun Safety Awareness Month in July.
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States (U.S.). Melanoma of the skin, the most malignant form of skin cancer, is the fifth most common cancer in Nebraska. Incidence and mortality rates of melanoma are higher in Nebraska compared to overall U.S. rates.
Anyone can get skin cancer, but people who have lighter natural skin color, blue or green eyes, and blond or red hair can be at greater risk. Other risk factors include skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun; a family or personal history of skin cancer; and older age. According to NC2, having just five or more sunburns can double your risk of developing melanoma.
The most common sign of skin cancer is change in the skin, which can include a new growth, a change in a mole, or a sore that doesn’t heal. For melanoma, it’s important to look for asymmetry in a mole or spot; an irregular or jagged border; uneven color; diameter of the mole or spot, and evolution, which means watching for changes over weeks or months.
Practicing consistent sun protection can greatly reduce the chance of skin cancer. It’s important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, as well as protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses to help protect the skin. People should also avoid artificial sources of UV exposure, such as tanning beds and sunlamps.
Regional West physician John Blomstedt, III, DO, emphasized the importance of using sun protection during summer activities.
“Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and wearing sunscreen is one of the best and easiest ways to keep our skin protected,” he said. “It helps protect our skin’s appearance and health at all ages, and when used regularly it helps prevent sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer. If you are going to be out in the sun for long periods of time, I recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 or higher to be applied every 90 minutes. Remember to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, too.”