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 Skin cancer is
the most prevalent of all cancers. Estimates vary on its occurrence
but it is estimated that approximately 700,000 Americans develop
skin cancer every year.
Sun avoidance is the best defense against skin cancer.
The principal cause of skin cancer is almost
universally accepted by medical experts to be overexposure to
sunlight, especially when it results in sunburn and blistering.
Other less important factors would include: repeated medical and
industrial x-ray exposure; scarring from diseases or burns;
occupational exposure to such compounds as arsenic, and family
history.
Prevention is a matter of guarding the skin against
the known causes.Since the sun and its ultraviolet rays would seem
to be the main culprit, the most effective preventive method is sun
avoidance. Limit the exposure of the skin to harmful rays by
covering up and using sunscreens with at least a 15 SPF rating.
Early detection is the surest way to a cure.
It is a simple routine to inspect your body for any
skin changes. Actinic keratosis and other skin cancers can be
readily detected. If any growth, moles, sore or discoloration
appears suddenly or begins to change, see your dermatologist.
Read more from the
American Academy of Dermatology.
Sign up to receive your
yearly skin cancer-screening reminder.
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