Can Age Increase Chances of Skin Cancer?
The human race is living longer than ever before, thanks to modern medicine and technology. One of the effects of living longer is that people spend more years in the sun and more years of exposure to environmental elements that take a toll on our skin and health. Prolonged years exposed to UV rays make those who are older more susceptible to skin cancer. It is never too early to go for a skin cancer screening, and making this a regular part of your annual checkups is a wise choice, but anyone between 40-50 years of age should get a baseline screening. Working with a reputable and licensed dermatologist can make the experience manageable, affordable, and something you actually look forward to.
Early Detection Skin Cancer Saves Lives
Skin cancer affects 1 in 5 people and does not discriminate against race, gender, or any other characteristic. A family history of skin cancer should be considered in how early skin cancer screenings begin. One thing to remember is that dermatologists want to help people avoid serious skin cancer and treat it early. Melanoma is a life-threatening skin cancer that can affect people regardless of age, race, gender, skin color and type. Melanoma is signficantly more concerning than basal and squamous cell carcinoma because it can grow quickly and spread to the body’s organs.
When diagnosed early, almost all cases can be treated without radiation or chemotherapy, which is a significant reason to stay ahead of irregular moles and other signs. Understanding the factors that increase risk may be preventative and help those living longer lives to remain healthy and skin cancer-free!
Things You Can and Can’t Control About Skin Cancer
Skin cancer, when kept in check, is almost always treatable. Knowing what factors are in your control and which aren’t also helps determine how proactive you may want to be about screenings. As with any cancer, family history is not something you can control. Genetics and family history are factors you can’t control, but their presence can give you the advantage you need to stay ahead of any signs of skin cancer.
Another thing you can’t control is what you have done to this point. If you slathered your body with baby oil and sat on the beach in your teens and twenties, you can’t go back and change that. If you spent years on a tanning bed, you also can’t change that. If you never used sunscreen in your life and spent your childhood outdoors, you can’t change that either. However, if you know you didn’t take the best care of your skin, you can use products to protect your skin in the future. Using sunscreen is no longer a preferred way to protect skin; it is mandatory for all people of all ages and all skin types. Skin cancer is proven to be caused by dangerous UV rays, so using sunscreen and being diligent can protect the skin and keep you looking younger and longer.
People can’t control their skin type or color. Lighter skin burns more easily and can suffer greater damage than olive skin. However, as the sun’s rays become more intense with each passing year, it would be best for everyone to apply sunscreen daily and make it a good habit.
Ok, enough bad news about things you can’t control. There are many things a person can do to minimize their risk of skin cancer, and it begins with a screening performed by a skilled and licensed dermatologist. In addition to peace of mind, thorough skin cancer screening identifies areas or moles that need to be looked at further. Individuals can also avoid sun exposure, use sunscreen, and avoid tanning beds. It is shocking how many lighter-skinned people continue to use tanning beds, even with the known risks associated with its use. There are many self-tanning products and spray tans that look real and last!
Working with the Best Dermatology Professionals Matter
Dermatologists like Dr. Sherrie Straughn have been treating clients for skin cancer, among other common skin conditions, for decades in Atlanta. Her bedside manner is unmatched, and her clients rely on her expertise and continued development to diagnose and treat them with incredible success.
In between screenings, individuals can wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen every day (even when cloudy and overcast), perform self-exams, and watch for changing or irregular moles. Any significant change in color, shape, or situation can be a sign of cancer cells. One of the blessings of living longer is enjoying all life has to offer, which is why skin cancer screenings and treatment should be a regular part of your annual health exam routine. If you aren’t sure where to start and live in Atlanta, Dr. Straughn has an incredible gift of putting people at ease, being professional, and communicating clearly about what to expect. If you are over 40 years old and haven’t been in for a skin cancer screening yet, schedule one today.