The month of July typically means barbeques, beaches, and fun in the sun. However, it also means more exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays which can potentially turn skin cells into skin cancer. It’s important to take extra precautions when enjoying the outdoors, especially since skin cancer rates have dramatically increased over the past decade. According to the American Cancer Society, the most common form of cancer in the US is skin cancer. Furthermore, there are more diagnoses of skin cancer than all the other types of cancer combined.
What is UV (Ultraviolet) Radiation?
UV radiation is composed of UVA and UVB rays which can damage the cells of the epidermis or top layer of your skin. UVA causes the aging process to accelerate. It also causes age spots, cataracts and other eye injuries, and genetic skin cell damage while UVB is what causes sunburns and is the primary risk factor for developing melanomas. Although the two types of rays can harm your skin and cause cancer, UVB rays are much stronger and cause more damage. Don’t be fooled into thinking that tanning beds are safer as they emit UV rays and still put you at risk of developing skin cancer. Thus, if you use it often, think again and consult with your physician to safeguard your health.
How to Protect Yourself during Summer
There are several precautions you can take to protect yourself and your skin in the summertime. First and foremost, avoid tanning beds (see above). Second, wear a hat, protective clothing, and a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, even on overcast days. Most importantly, know the risk factors involved. Depending on how sensitive you are to sunlight, you could be at greater risk of developing melanoma if you have:
- Family or personal history of melanoma
- History of sunburn blistering
- Large congenital moles
- Lighter skin
- Multiple moles
If you have an elevated risk of developing skin cancer, you need to be extra vigilant when protecting your skin. Regular checks by a dermatologist can help.
The Role of Diagnostic Imaging
Most skin cancers remain localized and don’t spread to the body’s other organs. This is especially with basal cell carcinoma which is the most common type of skin cancer. On the other hand, Melanoma is more prone to spreading. In these cases, medical imaging procedures such as CT scans, MRI’s, and X-rays can be used to discover whether the cancer has metastasized and spread to the bones or internal organs. These imaging procedures are painless and non-invasive. However, they can help detect any anomalies early on and treatment can start quickly.
To learn more about diagnostic imaging, contact Vital Imaging today at 305.596.9992.