Central Carolina HEALTH - Spring 2011 - (Page 10)

The and your Sun Skin Understand the Types There are three main types of skin cancer: p Basal cell carcinoma. The most common form of skin cancer, it tends to grow slowly in areas such as the head and neck that are exposed to the sun frequently. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Recurrence is common. Approximately half of those treated for basal cell cancer will develop a new skin cancer within five years. might not be in the form of a scrub, cleanser or self-tanner—it’s sunscreen. “Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer,” says John Cheesborough, MD, a board certified dermatologist on staff at Central Carolina Hospital. The American Cancer Society reports that it affects more than 1 million Americans each year and accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. Approximately 11,590 people die from the disease annually. p Squamous cell carcinoma. It usually appears on skin areas exposed to the sun and can spread to other parts of the body. p Melanoma. A potentially deadly form of skin cancer, it can appear suddenly or start near or in a mole or another dark area of skin. Know the Risks You may be at increased risk for developing skin cancer if you have these characteristics: p A fair complexion and family history of the disease p Many moles or atypically shaped moles p A history of severe sunburns during childhood p Excessive or unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation p Exposure through work to coal tar, pitch, creosote, arsenic compounds, or radium What you need to know about protecting yourself from skin cancer this summer Is beauty only skin deep? Turn on any television for an hour, and you’re sure to see a commercial on skin care products. Lotions, body scrubs, cleansers, face creams, self-tanners … it’s a multibillion dollar industry. Of course that’s not to say you shouldn’t take great care with your skin. Your skin helps shield you from heat and light, protects you from injury and infection, regulates body temperature, stores water and fat, and makes vitamin D. But the most effective beauty buy this season Protect Yourself Dr. Cheesborough says the best way to lower your risk of developing skin cancer is to protect yourself from UV light. “It’s important to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when it is the most intense,” he says. “You should also wear a long-sleeved shirt and a wide-brimmed hat while you’re outside in the sun for long periods of time. Stay in the shade when possible, wear sunglasses with 99 to 100 percent UV absorption, and avoid tanning beds. Don’t be stingy with the sunscreen—apply a generous amount of waterresistant sunscreen before heading out in the sun.” “If you notice a change in the appearance of your skin, see your physician. Skin cancer is highly curable when detected early and treated properly,” Dr. Cheesborough advises. SAFEGUARD YOUR SKIN 10 | S P R I N G 2 0 1 1 For more information about skin cancer, talk with your doctor or, for a free referral to a physician near you, please call 800-483-6385. John Cheesborough, MD, Dermatology, board certified

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Central Carolina HEALTH - Spring 2011

Central Carolina HEALTH - Spring 2011
From the CEO
Contents
Health Beat
Step By Step
Q+A
The Sun and Your Skin
Heart Smart
Beneath the Surface

Central Carolina HEALTH - Spring 2011