Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1470102
8 | Health Matters: Providence St. Jude Medical Center Q: I used tanning beds when I was younger. What can I do now to prevent skin cancer? A: Outdoor tanning and indoor tanning beds became extremely popular in the late 1980s, when we didn't know how damaging tanning is to our skin. Tanning damages your skin cells, speeds up aging and can lead to skin cancer. In fact, using an indoor tanning bed just once before the age of 35 increases your risk of developing melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, by 75%. I have many patients who frequented tanning booths when they were younger, unaware of the havoc it was causing to their skin. To prevent any more harm, you should avoid any form of tanning altogether. You should also apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day and wear proper sun protection, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses. If you will be outside for a long time, use a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater, and don't forget to reapply every two hours. For you, early detection is also critical for preventing life-threatening skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. When caught early, melanoma and other forms of skin cancer are highly treatable and curable. I recommend visiting a dermatologist at least once a year for a full-body skin exam. Between appointments, you can perform self-exams. Use a mirror to scan your body, including your palms, neck, scalp and between your toes. If you notice any atypical moles or spots that change or are causing discomfort, visit your dermatologist. They will evaluate the site and determine whether a biopsy is needed. Q: There is a history of hypertension in my family. What is it, and why is it called the silent killer? A: Hypertension is the medical term used to diagnose high blood pressure, a condition that impacts nearly half of all adults in the United States. Throughout the day, it's normal for your blood pressure to increase and decrease. But individuals with hypertension experience elevated blood pressure consistently. High blood pressure is a severe condition that, if left unchecked, can cause serious complications such as a heart attack or stroke, vascular dementia and heart failure. Unfortunately, most people don't even know they have high blood pressure. It can take years to develop, and many individuals do not show any signs or symptoms. This makes it one of the most dangerous and sneakiest health conditions, hence the "silent killer" nickname. Those who, like you, have a family history of the condition are more likely to develop the disease. Individuals who are obese, regularly stressed or anxious, drink too much, smoke or eat too much salt are also more at risk. There is no cure for hypertension, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. However, prevention is the best defense, especially since you have one of the risk factors. Exercising regularly, consuming less salt and finding healthy ways to cope with stress will help to keep your blood pressure levels healthy. With your family history, it's essential to know your numbers and to have your blood pressure checked at least once a year. If needed, your doctor will recommend lifestyles changes or, for more serious cases, medication. Join us for a free webinar UNDERSTANDING SKIN CANCER Tuesday, July 26, 6–7 p.m. Learn more about melanoma and other forms of skin cancer at this free webinar with Trevan D. Fischer, MD, a surgical oncologist at Providence St. Jude Medical Center. An expert in melanoma and cutaneous oncology, Dr. Fischer will review the latest techniques for removing skin cancer. Call 844-925-0944 or go to providence.org/stjudevevents to register. Join us for a free webinar HYPERTENSION: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE "SILENT KILLER" Wednesday, July 27, 6–7 p.m. Join George V.M. Dous, MD, FACC, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and cardiovascular disease expert at Providence St. Jude Medical Center, for a free online webinar about hypertension. To register, call 844-925-0944 or go to providence.org/ stjudevevents.