Olay Articles

Skin cancer is the most prevalent of all cancers. It is estimated that more than one million Americans develop skin cancer every year. Basically, there are two types of skin cancer: non-melanoma and melanoma. Non-melanoma (basal and squamous cell carcinoma), when found early and treated properly, have a cure rate of over 95%. Melanoma, the most deadly of all skin cancers and the seventh leading cause of death in the USA, is also curable when detected in its early stages. The current lifetime risk for Americans experiencing melanoma is 1 in 75 for the year 2000 and expected to increase to 1 in 60 in 2001.

Over exposure to the sun's rays is the main cause of skin cancer, especially when it results in blistering sunburn. Fair-skin people are at particularly high risk, but not exclusively. Anyone can develop skin cancer; however, it is preventable with appropriate use of sun protection. Appropriate sun protection includes using a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock with an SPF 15 or more, applied every two hours when doing outdoors activities and sweating. Also, wearing appropriate clothing (tight weave, dark colors, natural fabrics, 6" rim hats, etc.) and broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunglasses, along with seeking protective shelter during the midday sun, can help prevent skin cancer.

Periodic self-examinations can aid in early detection. Most of the spots on your skin – freckles, birthmarks, and moles - are normal, but some may be skin cancer. Melanomas can be diagnosed following the ABCDs:

1. Asymmetry or no matching halves when split in the middle.
2. Borders that are irregular, notched or scalloped.
3. Colors that vary with different tones of brown, tan, black and/or white.
4. Diameter larger than the size of a pencil eraser (6mm or ¼" in diameter).

If you identify any of the ABCDs of melanoma, visit your dermatologist for an evaluation.