Skin cancer is one of the common forms of cancer these days. In comparison with the other forms of cancer, it is less life-threatening because it is more noticeable even at early stages of its formation.
It is relatively easy to detect with self inspection of the skin. Besides, there are obvious ways that people can follow to minimize possibility of skin cancer from even occurring in the first place.
It is a good idea to incorporate as part of a routine physical checkup that your doctor examines your skin for any abnormal growths or discoloration, etc. You should also check your skin regularly at least once a month.
Checking your skin for skin cancer is quick, easy, and painless. When you do your self examination, you will want to take your time to really get a good look at your skin and bear in mind the various signs of cancerous growths. Make sure that you are in a well lit area and preferably with a full length mirror. Get ready a hand mirror as well because there will likely be areas that are not so easy to see with only one mirror. Carefully observe your skin and condition. You would gain a lot better understanding about how your healthy skin would look, and set a comparison to whatever that might look suspicious.
When examining your skin, take note of anything you haven’t noticed before. Start with your face and carefully work your way down the length of your body. Try to pay particular attention to the areas that are often exposed to the sun. Look for changes in the character of any abnormality such as the shape or size of a mole or discoloration.
If you like, you can research for medical drawings or photos online to guide you in the different types of skins cancers.
Early detection is the key to successfully treating skin cancer.
In general, people with lighter complexion might be more vulnerable. There are good ways to protect your skin from harmful UV-A’s and UV-B’s. Consider the like of wearing sunscreen, covering exposed skin, and wearing hats. If at all possible, try to stay indoors and keep yourself away from those extremely sunny conditions.
Over time, you would realize that all these little things would add up to give you a better-looking and healthier skin.
Filed under Prevention by on Nov 6th, 2009. Comment. 
Getting to know the signs of skin cancer and what it could look like would definitely help to identify any potential dangers early. If there is anything unusual showing up on your skin, it is always a good idea to clear the matter with the doctor. Prevention is better than cure.
As it is generally known, the sign of skin cancer can be revealed in terms of the five alphabets, ABCDE, as follows.
Think of the letter “A” for asymmetry. Non-cancerous growths are generally symmetrical. Hence, what you are typically looking for in a cancerous growth is for the shape to be erratic and not symmetrical. If the growth appears quickly as well, it would surely be a matter of greater concern.
As for the letter “B”, we refer it as the border of growth. Sometimes, the border of skin cancer might not be distinguished easily. It is a good practice to regularly look out for any such growth on the skin and make comparisons.
The letter “C” stands for color. Here, we focus on the color of any new growth on the skin. We would watch out for any red, brown, black, blue, or translucent growths. This is very important.
The letter “D” is about diameter. We are concerned about the size of the growth. If the growth appearing on your skin is greater than a quarter of an inch (or roughly 5.5mm) in diameter, you should have it examined by your doctor. Sizable growth can be a worry. It stands a higher chance of becoming cancerous.
The letter “E” stands for the elevation. Growth with elevated or uneven edges can be a sign of skin cancer.
Remember these five signs as they are very effective measures to expose potential cancerous growths. Apply them, keep a watchful eye on the condition of your skin, and you would likely stay yourself out of trouble. In the fight against skin cancer, you are your own best defense.
When in doubt, it would always pay to check out with the doctor and have tests done as soon as possible.
Filed under Symptoms by on Oct 29th, 2009. Comment.
