Valley View University Recap on Preventing Skin Cancer with Dr. Alexandra Donovan
- Category: Calaway Young Cancer Center, Cancer Care
- Posted On:
Skin Cancer: Awareness and Prevention
- Non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell and squamous cell) is the most common cancer in the U.S.
- 5.4 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed annually
- Melanoma risk increases with age:
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70
- Average age of diagnosis: 66
- One of the most common cancers in young adults
- Cancerous melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the U.S. (after breast, prostate, lung, colorectal).
- High-risk groups include those with fair skin, blue eyes, family history, living at elevation in sunny climates (hello Colorado!), immunocompromised individuals and those with a history of tanning bed use and early sun exposure.
- A single use of indoor tanning can increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 67%, basal cell carcinoma by 29% and melanoma by 23 percent. Using tanning beds before age 35 can increase chances of developing melanoma by 75%, and the risk increases with each use.
Early Detection is Key
- Melanoma survival rates:
- Stage 1: 99% (if detected early)
- Stage 2-3 (spread to lymph nodes): 68-75%
- Stage 4 (spread to organs): 34%
Melanoma is Preventable!
- Decrease your radiation exposure.
- Use Broad Spectrum SPF 30+ (zinc & titanium-based are safest) and reapply every two hours.
- Wear hats (3-inch brim or larger), UV-protective sunglasses, sun-protective clothing.
- Seek shade, especially from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Other Ways to Reduce Risk
- Take Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide): 500 mg twice daily for those with a history of non-melanoma skin cancers.
- Decrease alcohol intake: Studies suggest a possible link between outdoor exposure and alcohol consumption.
- Annual skin checks are crucial!
- Find it early, treat it early.
How to Schedule a Skin Check
- Start with primary care physician or a dermatologist
- Self-referrals to dermatology are allowed
- Primary care providers also offer skin checks
Treatment Options
- Concerned about a mole? Visit primary care provider or dermatologist for skin check and possible biopsy
- Early-stage skin cancer treatments include surgery by a dermatologist or a surgeon
- Basal or squamous cell carcinoma can be treated with MOHS surgery that involves removal of layers of skin until no cancer cells remain.
- Melanoma treatment includes surgery, immunotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, clinical trials.
Skin Cancer Treatment at Valley View
- First step: Visit your primary care doctor or dermatologist for an evaluation
- Surgical options:
- General and plastic surgeons can assist with resections
- Radiation oncologists may treat specific areas for more advanced melanoma
- Stage 2+ melanoma treatment: Medical oncologists at Calaway-Cancer Center can provide systemic therapies.
Common Questions & Answers
Q: Should I avoid sun completely?
A: No—your body needs Vitamin D!
Q: What are the best sunscreen brands?
A: Mineral-based creams offer strongest and safest protection.
Q: Is water resistant sunscreen important?
A: Yes, especially when swimming. Reapply every two hours.
Q: Does SPF number matter?
A: SPF 30-50+ is best. SPF 70+ is ok but it is not clear that it is much more helpful than SPF 50.
Q: Do medications increase sun sensitivity?
A: Yes—especially some antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs. Your provider will inform you if needed.