How to protect yourself against skin cancer?

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers. The world should protect itself from the harmful effects of the sun even though it gives good mood and energy. Since excessive UV radiation from the sun is considered the most important risk factor for the development of skin cancer.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is a wide range of malignant tumour diseases that can occur on the skin and mucous membranes. Medically, different types of skin cancer are differentiated, such as basalioma and spinalioma. They are associated with white skin cancer or malignant melanoma, also called black skin cancer. Malignant melanoma is the most common fatal form of skin cancer, while white skin cancer has a much better chance of recovery. Excessive ultraviolet radiation can damage the genetic material in the skin cells and thus be responsible for the development of cancer. However, UV radiation is necessary for the formation of vitamin D in the skin. The latter is important for the body, supporting calcium balance and bone metabolism.

How can skin cancer be prevented?

There are two possible preventions such as primary prevention and secondary prevention to prevent skin cancer. Primary prevention consists of avoiding intensive exposure to UV light and especially sunburn, as advised by dermatologists. Secondary prevention measures are aimed at the early detection of skin cancer. Visible changes in the skin should be detected before they present a risk. Indeed, before it reaches an early stage, as a stage without symptoms of the disease. The earlier skin cancer is discovered, the better the chances of recovery. This is particularly true for malignant melanoma: in the early stages, the cure rate is high and decreases rapidly as the disease progresses.

What measures are used for the early detection of skin cancer?

If the skin is diagnosed early, it is usually easy to treat the visible changes. In the early detection of skin cancer, the dermatologist examines the entire skin, including the hairy head, any wrinkles and visible mucous membranes. If the doctor discovers a suspicious finding, he or she will carry out further examinations to obtain clarification. Skin changes are usually clearly visible to the naked eye. Dermatologists therefore recommend regular self-examination of the skin all over the body. Everyone should observe their own skin so that any changes that occur can be quickly identified and clarified by the specialist.