Urgent Call to Action for Skin Cancer Prevention
When the fall weather is upon us, it might surprise you how many people toss their sunscreen to the side unless it is in the daily moisturizer or make-up they apply anyway. This is a significant mistake, and wearing sunscreen year-round is one of the ways that dermatologists will tell you is effective in fighting off skin cancer. Another step to avoid, detect, and treat skin cancer is to seek regular skin cancer screenings with a local and reputable dermatologist with experience helping others with early skin cancer detection and treatments. Dr. Sherrie Straughn has served clients in Atlanta for over 25 years, and her tireless effort is a beacon among her peers.
Skin Cancer on the Rise
With increasing knowledge of the risks of UV damage and skin cancer, one might think that the number of those with skin cancer would be on the decline. On the contrary, skin cancer numbers are on the rise. There are close to 5 million people treated every year in the United States, and most of these cases are preventable.
Skin cancer does not discriminate against and affects both lighter and darker skin patients. Anyone can be at risk of skin cancer, and undetected and untreated, it can be deadly. Dedicated dermatologists want to raise awareness among their clients about the importance of skin cancer screenings and the immense benefits of early detection. Those with education, training, and experience in skin care recognize the urgency of getting the message out about the seriousness of protecting the skin from the sun’s dangerous UV rays.
Outdoor Workers at Risk
Road work and outdoor jobs don’t stop just because the sun is out, and outdoor workers are at a significantly higher risk of getting skin cancer without taking proper precautions against UV rays. As employers ask employees to work outdoors, avoiding the sun is not an option. So, the alternative is to encourage good skincare habits while in the sun. UV radiation is the most common reason for skin cancer and the most preventable.
Employers can educate workers about the risks and encourage minimizing exposure by wearing protective clothing and headwear and using provided shade and indoor break areas when possible. Workers can wear sunscreen, which employers can also provide as a measure to help. Sunglasses can be worn to protect the eyes, although most outdoor workers find them challenging.
Continuing Sunscreen Through Fall and Winter
Fewer hours of sunshine do not mean skipping sunscreen application altogether is okay. The sun’s UV rays continue to penetrate and damage skin cells regardless of the weather. Yes, it is true that on a cloudy day, the UV rays will not be as intense as on a sunny day, but UV rays are still present. Not applying sunscreen increases a person’s risk of skin cancer and should be part of a regular skincare routine.
Skin Cancer Screenings Save Lives
Dermatologists are the front-line when it comes to skin cancer detection, and the earlier, the better. Screenings are done in-office, and it is the best way to detect signs of skin cancer early. It is more common for people to go to the dermatologist when they get a mole; they want a professional opinion on it, but not as a regular part of annual preventative healthcare. Unless you have a dressing room-style bathroom in your home, you can’t see all of your skin, which is why a professional skin cancer screening can save lives. Only a licensed and experienced dermatologist can do a thorough screening to ensure such signs of skin cancer exist. If anything is found and further studies must be done, they take care of it and offer treatment options and in-office skin cancer removals.
Baseline Skin Cancer Screenings
If you haven’t done a skin cancer screening yet, what are you waiting for? A screening offers peace of mind, as does any baseline exams and tests done for general health (mammogram, pap smear, bloodwork). A clear screening provides a baseline for any future screenings and skincare concerns. On the other hand, if anything is found, it can be treated early.
If you are often in the sun or have had damaging sunburns in your lifetime, please contact your local dermatologist for an appointment. There are several insurance companies will cover the cost of the screening, and offices like Buckhead Dermatology work to help clients afford the skincare they deserve.
When it comes to skin cancer prevention, completely avoiding the sun is unreasonable. Instead, taking measures to protect the skin and having employers guide workers to protect themselves, paired with regular skin cancer screenings, can lead to a life free from the dangers of skin cancer.
Dr. Sherrie Straugh of Buckhead Dermatology is accepting new patients and offers professional and discreet skin cancer screenings at her Atlanta practice. Call 404-816-4000 today to make an appointment.