Skin cancer prevention measures can greatly reduce your chances of developing skin cancer if you use them in your daily routine. The most common form of cancer in the United States, tens of thousands of Americans get skin cancer each year.
Skin cancer comes in three forms: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Of these three, melanoma is the most serious and is most likely to endanger human health. Skin cancer kills about 10,000 Americans each year.
What causes skin cancer?
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV rays) is a major external factor in the development of skin cancer, although genetic factors may play a role. To protect yourself from UV rays, you should take the following 5 steps to prevent proper skin cancer:
1. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: Avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight during the day (usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). This is the time when UV rays become more intense. Set your schedule to avoid external activities during these times. Also, be aware that sand and snow reflect sunlight, so if you are on the beach or a slide, direct sunlight can radiate it from side to side with UV rays.
2. Cover: If you are out in the sun, keep your skin covered. Wear long sleeves and long pants if possible. Wearing a hat with a 3 to the 4-inch brim around is best. This will protect your neck and cheeks from harmful prolonged exposure. Also, note that dry, dark-colored clothing provides excellent protection.
3. Use Sunscreen Properly: You should always use sunscreen when exposed to prolonged exposure to the sun. Get a sunscreen with at least 15 Sun Protection Factor and read the instructions for proper application. The higher the SPF, the more protection you will receive from dangerous sunburn. However, sunscreen does not provide “bulletproof” protection, and UV rays can penetrate water, so just because you feel “cool” in the water does not mean that you are protected from the sun.
4. Use UV sunglasses: Making your own special sunglasses can block UV rays helps protect your eyes from severe sun damage. Well-designed sunglasses should have a UV radiation rate of 99% to 100%. Never assume that black lenses are equivalent to extended protection. UV radiation is blocked by a chemical used in lenses. This chemical has nothing to do with the transparent color of the lenses.
5. Stay Out of Bed Sheets: It is a myth that beds and sunlight do not contain harmful UV rays. These cosmetics can make your skin more attractive in the short term but can greatly increase your chances of developing skin cancer in the future. Health professionals advise their patients to avoid them.
Applying these 5 steps to your daily routine can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer while maintaining a healthy lifestyle that allows for proper sun exposure. Another important step in preventing skin cancer is regular checkups by a physician. If skin cancer is diagnosed early, then your chances of survival increase dramatically.
Author: Hiba Zia
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