Dear NP

Dear NP,

“Can you tell me what skin cancer looks like? My mother died from skin cancer that spread to the underlying bones. What can I do to help prevent skin cancer other than sunscreen? I am 48 years old.”

Dear Reader,

Skin cancer is the most common cancer type in the world. In the United States, one out of every five persons will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. More than two people will die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.

While these statistics are frightening, finding and treating skin cancers early can yield very good results. The five-year survival rate for melanoma skin cancer found and treated before it can spread is 99%.

There are several things to look for when evaluating your skin for possible cancers. Skin cancer warning signs include a mole or skin lesion that changes shape, size, color or a new growth on your skin, or a sore that doesn’t heal.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends making an appointment if you notice any skin lesions different from others, are changing, itching or bleeding.

There are several different types of skin cancer. The first type is called actinic keratosis. This is a pre-cancerous skin condition that can turn into skin cancer if not treated. Actinic keratosis is red or pink rough patches of skin on sun-exposed areas.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and makes up about 90% of all skin cancers. It is slow-growing skin cancer and rarely spreads to other areas of the body.

It is usually found on the head and neck. Basal cell skin cancers look like a pearly or waxy pink bump and often have a dent in the lesion center.

Squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and can spread to other body parts. This skin cancer tends to be found in sun-exposed areas such as the hands, head, neck, lips and ears. It is a red, scaly, rough lesion.

Melanoma is the final type of skin cancer. While it is less common than basal or squamous cell cancers, it is the most dangerous.

Melanoma is responsible for about 73% of all skin cancer-related deaths. Melanomas are usually a flat brown or black-colored lesions. They are asymmetrical in shape and have an irregular border.

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is the most significant risk factor for developing skin cancers. While you are correct that wearing sunscreen is one way to prevent skin cancer, you can also do other things.

Avoid indoor tanning beds. Try to avoid sun exposure during the peak times of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. When you do go outdoors, protect your skin by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, including a hat, wear sunglasses with UV protection, and make sure your sunscreen contains an SPF of 30 or higher. Clothing with built-in ultraviolet protection is now available.

Check your skin regularly for any worrisome changes, and seek your healthcare provider’s advice if you see a new or changing spot.

Taking care of your skin, preventing sunburns and regularly checking your skin are the best ways to prevent skin cancers or detect them early. Remember that early treatment can prevent skin cancers from spreading and have an excellent outcome. If you see a spot that you are worried about, have your healthcare provider check it for you as soon as possible.

Dr. Wesley Davis is an Emergency Nurse Practitioner at Crook County Medical Services District and Coordinator of the Family and Emergency Nurse Practitioner program at the University of South Alabama. He encourages readers to send their questions to [email protected]