With the sun shining, it's crucial to focus on preventing skin cancer.

With the sun shining, it's important to consider how to prevent skin cancer.

During summer in the Northern Hemisphere, it's a good idea to chat with health expert and emergency physician Dr. Leana Wen from CNN about the risks of skin cancer and safe sun exposure practices.

What should we be aware of when it comes to developing skin cancer? And how can we tell when a mole or discolored area on our skin needs to be evaluated? Which medical professional should we contact if we have concerns? Should everyone get a full-body skin cancer screening? Are self-exams effective?

Dr. Wen has some informative answers, as well as tips on how to reduce the possibility of acquiring skin cancer. She's an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University, having previously served as Baltimore's health commissioner.

CNN: I was taken aback to find out that skin cancer is so prevalent. What are the primary types of skin cancer?

Dr. Leana Wen: There are three major types of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common, and it can seem like a transparent bump on the skin. It usually forms on areas with plenty of sun exposure, such as the head and neck. Although these cancers slowly develop, they can delve deep and harm nerves and bones.

The second most common type is squamous cell carcinoma. It’s often similar to a red bump and might look like a sore or open wound that heals and then reopens. These cancers also tend to pop up in sun-exposed areas like the lip or ear. They can also grow deep and spread to different parts of the body.

Melanoma is the third and particularly important type. It accounts for just 1% of all cancers, but it results in the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. In the United States, over 8,000 individuals will pass away each year due to this cancer in 2024.

Melanoma may form within an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. There's also a connection between melanoma and sun exposure. While melanoma often occurs in older people, it's one of the most common cancers among young adults.

CNN: How can we tell if a mole or skin discoloration needs to be examined by a healthcare professional?

Wen: There's an "ABCDE" rule that aids in identifying possible melanoma. A represents Asymmetry, meaning the shape of one side of a mole doesn't match the other. B stands for Border, indicating a mole with a blurry, irregular perimeter could be concerning. C refers to Color, meaning a mole with various hues and shades might be a warning sign. D represents Diameter, as most melanomas are larger than 6 millimeters or 1⁄4 inch. E signifies Evolution, or a mole that has transformed over recent weeks or months.

Individuals who notice these features in a mole should immediately consult a doctor. In addition to this, those who observe a new growth, a spot or bump that's growing in size, a painful or uncomfortable skin discoloration, or a sore that's not healing, should seek medical attention.

CNN: Should people arrange an appointment with a dermatologist? What if they don't have one?

Wen: Individuals with a dermatologist should connect with that person first. Occasionally, a referral from a primary care physician might be necessary.

People who find concerning signs that could indicate melanoma should explicitly state this to get timely medical care.

CNN: Should people undergo regular skin cancer screening tests?

Wen: The prestigious US Preventive Services Task Force stated in 2023 that there isn't enough evidence to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of routine visual skin examinations as a screening approach for skin cancer in those without alarming moles or spots.

It's significant to note that this is the general guideline for folks at average risk for skin cancer with no worrisome moles or odd spots. Those with alarming skin changes should immediately consult their doctor.

Moreover, individuals at increased risk for skin cancer should enquire with a dermatologist about regular skin exams, which entail visual examination by a medical professional to inspect the entire body. Some moles may be excised for biopsy to see if they are cancerous.

CNN: What characteristics increase someone's risk for skin cancer?

Wen: One critical factor is UV light exposure. People with extensive sun exposure, a history of sunburns, and tanning bed usage are more prone to skin cancer. Age is also a risk factor; the longer someone has UV exposure, the higher their risk. Individuals with 50 or more moles are also at a higher risk, as are people with fair complexions.

Risk factors relating to personal and family medical histories include personal or family history of skin cancer, history of precancerous lesions such as actinic keratoses, certain genetic disorders like xeroderma pigmentosum, and history of immunosuppression. Those unsure of their risk factors should speak with their physician to devise a screening strategy.

Yes, it's a great idea for everyone to examine their skin for moles. Keep an eye out for the ABCDE warning signs and any new marks or sores that are itchy, sensitive, or painful.

It's important to remember that skin cancer can appear on any part of your body, not just the spots that get a lot of sunlight. This includes places like the palms of your hands, the soles of your feet, and your genitals.

A convenient time to check is when you're in the shower, bath, changing clothes, or applying lotion. If you can, ask a family member or friend to help you examine areas that are hard to see, like the back of your neck or scalp.

CNN: What are steps to minimize the likelihood of getting skin cancer?

Wen: Reducing your UV exposure is one of the most important things you can do. Try to stay in the shade, wear clothing to cover your arms and legs, use a hat that shields your face, head, ears, and neck, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 regularly.

To find the best sunscreen for your needs, check out the Environmental Working Group's reliable resource, which I rely on and recommend to others.

You should be aware that UV rays can harm your skin even when it's cloudy outside or during the winter months. They can also reflect off surfaces like sand, snow, and water. Additionally, skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones, not just those with light complexion.

Lastly, I cannot stress enough the importance of avoiding indoor tanning beds. These devices expose you to high levels of UV radiation, significantly increasing your risk of skin cancer.

Routine self-exams can help with early detection of skin cancer.

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Developing skin cancer can be a concern, especially during summer. To mitigate this, wellness practices such as regularly applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding indoor tanning beds can significantly reduce the likelihood of skin cancer. It's also essential to stay aware of the ABCDE warning signs of melanoma and consult a healthcare professional if any concerning symptoms are noticed.

Source: edition.cnn.com