Submitted by Doug Leone, MD, and Adrienne Schupbach, MD, Dermatology and Mohs Surgery Institute
Are you at risk for skin cancer? Do you know the signs? According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. That means odds are quite high that at least one in your circle of friends will face this dangerous disease. As the season for bare skin approaches, are you aware of the risks and preventative measures necessary to avoid sun exposure?
Approximately 58 million Americans are affected by actinic keratosis (AKs), the most common form of pre-cancerous skin damage known casually as “pre-cancers,” according to a report published by The American Academy of Dermatology Association. An estimated 10 percent of AKs will become squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common form of skin cancer, within two years.
AKs are rough-textured, dry, scaly patches on the skin that are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light such as sunlight. They occur most often on areas such as the face, scalp and ears. They can range in color from skin-toned to reddish-brown. They can be as small as a pinhead or larger than a quarter.
AKs predominately affect people over 50, and slightly more men than women. Individuals who are most likely affected by AKs include those who have risk factors including:
- fair skin
- blond or red hair
- blue, green, or grey eyes
- a history of kidney disease or weakened immune system
- daily, long-term exposure to the sun
- multiple severe sunburns early in life
Fortunately, skin cancer can be avoided with treatment, yet many people fail to seek treatment. What they may not realize is that there are actually many treatment options available, such as cryotherapy (freezing); topical medication; curettage; chemical peel; and surgical incision.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the newest treatment for actinic keratoses. It is a laser treatment that is done in two steps. First, a topical medication is applied to the affected area. The solution is absorbed by the AKs and non-melanoma skin cancer cells where it acts as a photosensitizing agent. The area is then exposed to blue light which causes a chemical reaction that kills the damaged cells. These cells will then be replaced by healthy new cell growth. Photodynamic therapy is especially recommended when AKs appear in an entire area, such as the face. When there are multiple AKs, treatment must address not only the visible lesions, but also the rest of the area that has suffered solar damage and is in a precancerous condition.
To reduce your risk of skin cancer you can take some precautions:
- Regular skin evaluations by a dermatologist can catch the disease early so that it can be treated. Just as you schedule an annual physical or other routine checkups as part of your regular health routine, a recurring appointment with a dermatologist can significantly reduce your chances of developing skin cancer.
- In between visits to the dermatologist, perform thorough self-checks by examining your skin all over on a regular basis.
- Avoid damaging sunrays and protect your skin by seeking the shade during high sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.); avoiding sunburns; and, covering your skin with clothing and hats.
- Do not use tanning booths!
- Understand sunscreen and use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply one ounce (two tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30-minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Do yourself a favor and get checked before the summer season, to ensure you are properly caring for and protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. The skin is the largest organ of the human body — take care of it.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, you may contact the Dermatology and Mohs Surgery Institute at 309-451-DERM (3376) www.dermatologistbloomington.com. Dr. Leone and Dr. Schupbach, both residents of Bloomington, are board certified dermatologists, specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology, including the treatment of skin cancer, moles, acne, rashes, warts, and all skin disorders. Dr. Leone is one of the few Mohs trained surgeons in the area. Their practice is located at 3024 E. Empire St. 2nd floor (in the Advocate BroMenn outpatient center).
Photo credit: OJO_Images/iStock