By Pat Lawrence
John Denver sang “Sunshine on my shoulders, makes me happy”
but he didn't live to see what else it could do. Better to seek the
shade than soak up the sun since exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet
(UV) rays appears to be the most important environmental factor in
development of skin cancer. Besides a personal or family history of
skin cancer, high risk factors for developing skin cancer are chronic
exposure to the sun and a history of sunburns early in life.
Skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in the US. More
than 1 million new cases will be diagnosed in 2002. It is also the
fastest increasing malignancy in the country, rising by about 8 percent
a year.
There are three common types of skin cancers. Basal cell carcinomas
are most common, accounting for more than 90 percent of all skin cancers
in the US. They are slow-growing and seldom spread to other parts
of the body.
Squamous cell carcinomas also rarely spread, but they do so more
often than basal cell carcinomas. The most dangerous of all skin cancers
is melanoma, which spreads to other organs and causes more than 75%
of all skin cancer deaths. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas
can be cured if detected and treated early, but both can cause considerable
damage and disfigurement.
Skin cancer can occur anywhere although basal and squamous cell cancers
are found mainly on skin areas exposed to the sun- head, face, neck,
hands, and arms. Changes in the skin are not sure signs of cancer;
but a new growth, a slow healing sore, change in skin color or texture
or any symptom that lasts longer than 2 weeks, should be checked.
Skin cancer seldom causes pain and doesn’t all look the same.
It can start as a small, smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump. It can
appear as firm, red lumps that may bleed or develop a crust. Skin
cancer also can start as a flat, red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly.
Treatment for skin cancer usually involves some type of surgery.
In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy (anticancer drugs)
or a combination of these treatments may be necessary.
Early detection is important and enhances the chances for successful
treatment. What may be even more important is preventing skin cancer
by consistently practicing sun protection.
Standing in the shadows may be the best way to light up –and
lengthen- your life.
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