What steps can you take to prevent yourself from getting skin cancer?

April 28, 2005

Universtiy of Minnesota dermatology professor Dr. Bertha Lin discussed skin cancer on the April 28 KARE 11 Today Show.

What steps can you take to prevent yourself from getting skin cancer? What should you look for in a sunscreen?

Lin: Skin cancer can appear as a scaly area, bump, or mole. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common, appearing most frequently on sun-exposed parts of the body. Melanoma is the most deadly form, and people should look for the ABCDs of melanoma to protect themselves. A symmetry, B orders (irregular); C olor (multiple or changing); and, Diameter (greater than 6 mm).

People can reduce their risk of developing skin cancer by limiting exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and artificial sources such as tanning beds. When outdoors at any time of the year, people should wear sunscreen. A sun tan is the body's response to damage from UV rays--there is no such thing as a safe sun tan.

Prevention & Sunscreen Tips

To protect yourself from skin cancer, get regular skin examinations by a dermatologist. Keep watch for moles that are asymmetrical, larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser, or have irregular borders or multiple colors.

In 2002, the Department of Health and Human Services added UV radiation to the government's list of known carcinogens. Overexposure to these rays is the greatest preventable risk factor for developing skin cancer.

Avoid sun tanning and getting sun burned. Limit exposure to the sun in peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If your shadow is shorter than you are, you are likely to sun burn.

Wear sunscreen and protective clothing. Look for a broad spectrum coverage for UVA and UVB rays, at least a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 for everyday activities, 30 or higher for outdoor activities. Apply to dry skin 15-20 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 60-90 minutes or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. And check the expiration dates on sunscreen, as it loses its effectiveness over time.

Start them young: It is estimated that 80 percent of a person's lifetime sun damage occurs in childhood. Get your children used to using sun screen and wearing wide brimmed hats.

For more information contact the American Academy of Dermatology .

Bertha Lin, M.D. , sees patients through University of Minnesota Physicians
She's a professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School's Department of Dermatology