Skin Cancer

General Facts

Skin cancer is the most frequent form of cancer among Canadians, accounting for one third of all cases. A projected 61,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer will be diagnosed in Canada in 1997. An estimated 3200 new cases of malignant melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer, will be diagnosed.

People born today face an estimated 1 in 7 chance of developing skin cancer at some time during their lives. The incidence continues to increase and is due mainly to changes in the ozone layer, increased involvement in outdoor activities, wearing less clothing, and our incessant pursuit of a tan.
 

Three Types of Skin Cancer

• Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common skin cancer which thankfully grows slowly and rarely spreads. It is usually found on the face and other exposed areas.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma is found less frequently than the basal cell carcinoma and can occasionally spread rapidly. It is potentially fatal if ignored and is most commonly found on the lower lip, ears and hands.

• Malignant Melanoma is the most serious of the skin cancers. It often grows and spreads rapidly and, if left untreated, can invade lymph nodes and other vital organs. It is most often found on upper back and shoulders in men and legs in women. It develops in the pigment cells of the of the skin (melanocytes) and its incidence is doubling every ten years.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

• Blonde, red, light-brown hair

• Light-coloured eyes - blue, green, grey

• Freckles easily

• Large number of moles

• Family history

• Long periods of sun exposure

• Shorter periods of intense sun exposure

• Tendency to burn

• Use of tanning devices

• Immunological factors

Early Detection

• A skin growth that increases in size and appears scaly, translucent, tan brown, black or multi-coloured.

• A mole or birthmark that changes colour, increases in size, texture or thickness and is irregular in outline.

• A spot or growth that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, erode or bleed.

• An open sore or wound on the skin that does not heal or persists for more than four weeks, or heals and then reopens.

Prevention

Skin cancer is almost always preventable. It has been called the "classic lifestyle disease of the twentieth century."

• Keep babies under one year old out of direct sunlight.

• For adults and children over one year of age, liberally apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Apply evenly to all exposed body areas 15-30 minutes before you go out into the sun. Reapply according to instructions. Recent studies show that use of sunscreen can help to prevent squamous cell carcinoma but has not been effective in reducing the rate of the more serious malignant melanoma.

• Cover up your head with a wide brimmed hat and wear loose-fitting, tightly knit clothing to cover up your arms and legs.

• Protect your eyes with UV-rated sunglasses.

• Plan outdoor activities for before 11:00 a.m. or after 4:00 p.m. to avoid peak UV exposure.

• Be aware that some prescription and non-prescription drugs can cause sun sensitivity. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist.

• Remember that up to 80% of the sun’s rays can go through light clouds, mist and fog and that water, sand, cement and snow reflect 85% of the sun’s harmful rays. Shade yourself whenever possible.

Summary

Sunburns in early life increase our lifetime risk of skin cancer. In fact, one severe burn is believed to double the risk. The skin does not forget, and the damage caused by sun exposure accumulates over a lifetime. We all need to increase our awareness of ultraviolet radiation and decrease our exposure.

• Know your risk

• Think prevention

• Avoid ultraviolet light as much as possible

• Take precautions

• Understand the importance of early detection

• Perform self examinations

If you would like more information on skin cancer or a speaker for your group, contact the Grey Bruce Health Unit at 1-800-263-3456.