UV Safety Can Reduce Your Risk of Cancer

In July, UV Safety Month reminds us of the connection between ultraviolet (UV) light and cancers of the skin, lips and eyes and it educates us about ways we can protect ourselves from UV rays. The majority of all skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV light rays – either from the sun (a natural source) or from an artificial source, such as tanning beds. Especially here in Florida, it is important to learn the risks of too much sun exposure and take precautions to protect yourself and your family, so that everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely.

About one in five Americans is likely to develop skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), making it the most common form of cancer in the U.S. Generally, it is highly treatable; however, it should still be taken seriously and you should seek a medical evaluation if you notice a suspicious lesion or mark anywhere on your skin. The good news is that, in addition to being the most common type of cancer, skin cancer is also the most preventable cancer. In fact, research indicates that protecting your skin before you turn 18 can cut your risk of some types of skin cancer by as much as 78%.

There are three main types of skin cancer – basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma, which is the most serious type. Basal cell skin cancer is the most prevalent and least dangerous type of skin cancer. It generally appears on the head, neck or upper torso and it grows slowly. Spots, blemishes, freckles and moles are signs of sun-damaged skin. They are usually harmless, but if you notice them changing, see a doctor.

While not as dangerous as melanoma, squamous cell skin cancer can spread to other parts of the body over some months. It usually appears as a thickened, red, scaly spot that may bleed easily, crust or ulcerate. It is generally found on those areas of the skin that are most often exposed to the sun.

Risks and Warning Signs of Skin Cancer
Most moles, brown spots and other growths on the skin are usually harmless; however, it’s a good idea to have an annual skin check by a professional healthcare provider. Older adults, people who are fair-skinned, or those who have a lot of moles are generally at greater risk, so it’s important to know your skin well and recognize any changes that you see on your body.

Here is an easy way to recognize if a mole or other skin lesion may be cancerous – just remember the ABCs of skin cancer:

Asymmetry: one half of the mole doesn’t match the other
Border: is irregular
Color: is not uniform
Diameter: greater than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
Evolving: size, shape or color changes

To reduce your risk of skin cancer:
• Whenever you are in the sun, wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30+
• Do not use tanning beds
• Have an annual skin check by a medical professional
• Watch for any changes in moles or new suspicious skin growths

WORLD-CLASS CANCER
TREATMENT CLOSE TO HOME
Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) has a statewide network of expert, board-certified physicians who bring world‐class cancer treatments to local communities, both large and small, in locations throughout Florida. FCS is also a strategic partner with Sarah Cannon, one of the leading research and clinical trial organizations in the world. This alliance provides FCS patients access to the newest, most innovative and most promising new treatments.

Florida Cancer Specialists treats patients with all types of cancer and offers a number of services, including an in-house specialty pharmacy, an in-house pathology lab, financial counselors at every location and 24/7 access to Care Managers, who help deliver the most advanced and personalized care in your local community.

Florida Cancer Specialists

North Port
3085 Bobcat Village Center Road
North Port, Florida 34288

Port Charlotte
22395 Edgewater Drive
Port Charlotte, FL 33980

Venice Island
901 South Tamiami Trail
Venice, FL 34285

Venice Healthpark
836 Sunset Lake Blvd,
Suite 101
Venice, FL 34292

Englewood
714 Doctors Drive
Englewood, FL 34223-3992

For more information, visit FLCancer.com