Understanding Dermatology’s Role in Skin Cancer Prevention
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and management of conditions involving the skin, hair, and nails. Skin cancer occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells triggers mutations; these defects lead the cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. Dermatology specialists diagnose, treat, and aid in the prevention of this disease. Regular checkups allow doctors to find suspicious growths early when they are easiest to remove or treat.
Identifying Skin Cancer Causes
Most cases of skin cancer occur when ultraviolet, or UV, light damages DNA in skin cells over time. The field of dermatology studies how these mutations lead to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation. The sun is a primary source of UV rays, but using tanning beds also contributes to a user’s UV exposure.
Some individuals have a higher risk due to their family history, or they might be more susceptible because of a fair skin type. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are common types, while melanoma is less common. Melanoma is also a more serious, aggressive cancer.
Exploring Effective Treatment Options
Doctors use several methods to remove cancerous cells. After they determine the type, size, and location of the tumor, the doctor may use excision or Mohs surgery to remove it. Excision involves cutting out the tumor with a scalpel, and the physician also removes some surrounding healthy tissue for safety.
Mohs surgery is a more precise technique used for sensitive areas like the face or eyelids, where tissue conservation is beneficial. The surgeon removes layers of skin one by one, and they examine each layer under a microscope to monitor the result. Radiation therapy or topical creams may be viable options for certain patients.
Common treatments include:
- Excision: Cutting out the cancerous lesion.
- Mohs surgery: Removing cancerous tissue layer by layer.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the cancer cells with liquid nitrogen.
- Curettage and electrosurgery: Scraping away the tumor and destroying any remaining cancer cells with electricity.
Prioritizing Daily Skin Protection
Utilizing sun protection reduces your risk of skin cancer and prevents premature aging. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even when it is cloudy outside. Reapplication is necessary if you swim, and you must reapply when during outdoor activities where you sweat heavily.
Clothing offers another layer of defense against harmful rays during the day. You can wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face from the sun, and long-sleeved shirts can protect your arms and torso from harmful rays. Seeking shade during peak sun hours is another way to reduce your risk of getting burned by the intense midday sun.
Recognizing Early Warning Signs
Be vigilant about changes to your skin to catch issues early. If you notice new growth, schedule an appointment promptly. A sore that does not heal warrants a visit to the doctor, and ask about any moles that change in appearance.
The ABCDE rule helps patients and doctors identify potential melanoma:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Color: The color is not the same all over and may include different shades.
- Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across, or about the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
Learn More About Dermatology
Skin cancer is a serious health concern, but it is highly treatable when identified early and treated by a professional. Dermatology experts provide the expertise needed to diagnose issues accurately and guide you toward treatment and recovery. Regular self-exams and professional screenings can be a defense against this disease. If you want to learn more about skin cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, consult a dermatologist near you.
