Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1499641
Health Matters: Providence St. Mary Medical Center | 3 The Keys to Prevention Knowledge is power when it comes to warding off skin cancer. M ay is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which means it's time to catch up on statistics associated with the most common form of cancer in the United States. Studies estimate that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, some 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with the condition every day. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are among them—both were recently diagnosed with and treated for basal cell carcinoma. Although people with lighter skin tones have a higher risk of developing skin cancer, anyone can get it. It's also important to note that people with darker skin tones are often diagnosed at a later stage, which increases their risk of dying from skin cancer. Despite these odds, the good news is that skin cancer is highly preventable. It can also be cured in 99% of cases if treated early. With those figures in mind, Eric Sako, MD, of the Pacific Dermatology Institute offers these crucial prevention tips that everyone should know and follow. Children need sunscreen protection from an early age. One of the most common stories from patients who have skin cancer is that their parents let them play outside unprotected as kids—and they burned over and over again. The earlier you start using sunscreen, the lower your risk will be later in life. Apply enough sunscreen! Use enough sunscreen to sufficiently coat the skin. Often, I find patients aren't using enough protection, and they are missing spots. In addition, you should be applying the sunscreen every two to three hours if outside— and don't forget the ears! Tint your car windows. In California, driving is a must, and it's very common for patients to come in with skin cancers on the left side of their face, neck and arms. Legally tinting the front windows, even with clear tint, can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful UV rays. See a dermatologist or skin professional for regular skin checks. At these checks, precancerous lesions can be found early and treated before they turn cancerous. If you find a lesion yourself that is suspicious, come in earlier rather than wait. If you've had multiple skin cancers, you may benefit from nicotinamide. Studies have demonstrated that patients with a previous history of skin cancer who take 500 milligrams of this vitamin twice a day are at lower risk of developing further skin cancers. A form of vitamin B3, it's safe and inexpensive and can be purchased at a drugstore or online. Pacific Dermatology Institute's Apple Valley office is located at 18523 Corwin Road, Suite G. Call the office at 760-242-3376 for more information.