Remember, sun damage isn’t just for folks like Bob Marley, the musical legend who tragically lost his life to acral lentiginous melanoma at 36. This serious, though uncommon, form of melanoma is also the most prevalent in people with darker skin tones.
Understanding your skin type is a big deal when it comes to skin cancer, including melanoma. While it’s true that folks with fair skin face a higher risk, even if you tan without burning, UV exposure can still crank up your risk. That’s why getting to know your skin well is your secret weapon in this fight.
Types of Skin Cancer and Their Characteristics:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
- Most common type of skin cancer.
- Appearance: Flesh-coloured, pearl-like bump, or pinkish patch.
- Common in fair-skinned individuals but can affect all skin types.
- Develops after prolonged sun exposure or indoor tanning.
- Common areas: Head, neck, arms; can occur anywhere on the body.
- Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial to prevent deep growth.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
- Second most common type of skin cancer.
- Appearance: Red firm bump, scaly patch, or healing sore.
- More prevalent in individuals with light skin but can affect darker skin.
- Often found on sun-exposed areas like ears, face, neck, arms, chest, and back.
- Can grow deeply into skin becoming invasive; early diagnosis and treatment is essential.
Actinic Keratoses (AKs):
- Precancerous growths, dry and scaly patches or spots.
- Develop from sun exposure; not skin cancer but can progress to SCC.
- Common in individuals with fair skin.
- Occurs on sun-exposed areas like head, neck, hands, and forearms.
- Requires treatment due to the potential for developing into skin cancer.
Melanoma:
- Deadliest form of skin cancer.
- Development: Within an existing mole or sudden appearance as a new dark spot.
- Often called “the most serious skin cancer” due to its tendency to spread.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effective management.
- Knowing ABCDE warning signs can aid in identifying potential melanoma.
ABCDE Warning Signs to Identify Potential Melanoma
ABCDE represents asymmetry, border irregularities, colour variations, diameter exceeding 6mm, and evolving features. These characteristics are pivotal for doctors when diagnosing and categorising melanomas. Take a look at the table below:
| Asymmetry | Melanomas typically exhibit asymmetry, with shapes lacking uniformity. Conversely, non-cancerous moles tend to display a uniform and symmetrical shape. |
| Border | Melanomas often present with indistinct or irregular borders, in contrast to the smooth, well-defined borders typically found in non-cancerous moles. |
| Colour | Melanoma lesions commonly display multiple colours or shades, whereas benign moles typically exhibit a single colour. |
| Diameter | Melanoma growths usually surpass 6mm in diameter, approximately the size of a standard pencil, distinguishing them from non-cancerous moles. |
| Evolution | Melanomas tend to undergo changes in size, shape, or colour over time, unlike the stable characteristics of most benign moles. |
What Defines Skin Type?
The Fitzpatrick skin typing system, established by Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick in 1975, categorises skin into six types, ranging from very light (type 1) to very dark (type 6). This scientific classification assesses skin based on pigment levels and its response to sunlight. Identifying your Fitzpatrick skin type aids in anticipating your susceptibility to sun damage and the risk of skin cancer.
Find your Fitzpatrick skin type with this quiz.
Every Skin Type Faces Risk
Irrespective of your skin type, exposure to UV radiation can result in harmful and enduring damage. Individuals from any ethnic background, including those who consistently tan or seldom burn, remain susceptible to developing skin cancer.
Prioritise Daily Protection Against Skin Cancer
While recognising your skin type is crucial for defence against skin cancer, it’s not the sole risk factor. To prevent premature ageing and potential skin damage leading to cancer, incorporate daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen and adopt sun-safe practices.
Sun Avoidance and Protective Measures:
- Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the rays are strongest.
- Seek shade, wear long sleeves, and opt for tightly woven fabrics for UV ray protection.
- Utilise wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes.
Sunscreen Usage:
- Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, offering both UVA and UVB protection.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours, after swimming, or sweating.
- Ensure adequate coverage, including ears, hands, feet, back of the neck, and any exposed scalp.
- Apply sunscreen under lightweight or loosely woven clothing.
Avoid Indoor Tanning:
- Refrain from using tanning beds, booths, or sunlamps, as they pose similar risks to sun exposure.
- Indoor tanning can lead to skin cancer, wrinkles, and other skin damage.
Regular Skin Checks:
- Monitor your skin regularly for any changes.
- Consult a doctor or nurse immediately if you notice new growth, changes in existing growth, bleeding moles, or non-healing sores.
- Professional evaluation is crucial to distinguish harmless changes from potential skin cancer.
Busting Skin Cancer Myths
Despite its common occurrence, skin cancer is highly preventable, primarily caused by excessive sun or tanning bed exposure. Let’s debunk some myths:
Myth 1: Dark-skinned people are immune to skin cancer.
Reality: Skin cancer can affect people of all skin colours, and while it’s more frequent in lighter-skinned individuals, the death rates are higher in darker-skinned people.
Myth 2: Sun exposure is the only source of vitamin D.
Reality: You don’t need extensive sun exposure for vitamin D; minimal daily exposure and food provide sufficient amounts.
Myth 3: Only sun exposure causes skin cancer.
Reality: Skin cancer can result from UV exposure in tanning beds, genetic factors, ageing, and a weakened immune system.
Myth 4: Higher SPF is always better.
Reality: SPF doesn’t increase proportionately; SPF 30 absorbs 97% of UV rays, SPF 50 absorbs slightly more, and SPF 100 absorbs 99%. Opt for at least SPF 30 for effective protection.
Final Thoughts on Defeating Skin Cancer
Remember, your skin is your biggest asset, so treat it with respect! Don’t underestimate the power of early detection and preventive measures. Take charge of your skin health today by scheduling a skin check with your doctor, sharing this information with your loved ones, and diving deeper into the wealth of resources available. Together, we can raise awareness, encourage proactive habits, and ultimately win the fight against skin cancer. Let’s shine bright, but do it safely!
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Cancer:
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by the sun’s harmful rays.
Is skin cancer contagious?
No, skin cancer is not contagious. It cannot be transmitted from person to person.
How treatable is skin cancer when detected early?
When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment outcomes.
