How to Prevent Skin Cancer
, There are millions of new skin cancer cases that today and the numbers are steadily growing. In most cases skin cancer can be attributed to direct exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. While skin cancer is the #1 most common form of cancer people develop, most cases can be prevented by taking the appropriate measures to protect the skin. One of the most common medical questions people pose is: what are the best ways to prevent skin cancer? Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind.
#1 Nutrition
While most people do not think of diet as a preventative measure, the proper intake of nutritious foods can aid in skin cancer prevention, from the inside out. This is because plant-based foods help to increase the antioxidants in the skin that protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This is also true of foods that are rich in vitamin D. These dietary factors are very important when it comes to the skin’s natural ability to block harmful sun rays. Seek out a variety of foods such as citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables which can give the body a boost of vitamins and nutrients that stave off the damaging effects of direct sunlight.
#2 High SPF Sunscreen
Use sunscreen daily to add an additional layer of protection to the skin. Sunscreen should even be used on cloudy days as UV rays are still present. Even skin that is covered by clothing should still have sunscreen applied to it. Dermatologists and medical professionals suggest an SPF of at least 30, however higher SPFs can provide even more protection. For instance, an SPF of 50 can protect the skin by as much as 90 percent from UV rays. For the best protection use a highly effective broad-spectrum brand. Apply an ample amount of the product to the skin, applying an even coat that covers the entire body. This is especially true for often forgotten areas such as the ears, face and tops of the feet. For the best results, sunscreen should be reapplied at least every 2 hours.
#3 Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Researchers have found that excessive alcohol consumption is associated with higher rates of sun burn and skin cancer. This is because alcohol destroys the skin’s natural antioxidants and ability to protect itself from the sun. To reduce the risk of skin cancer due to alcohol consumption, do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol prior to direct exposure to sunlight.
#4 Seek Shade During Peak UV Times
The sun is highest in the sky between the hours of 10am to 4pm. While it may not be possible to avoid direct sunlight all the time, it is important to seek shade wherever possible during these peak hours. Also, create shade by wearing a hat or other protective clothing which can help to block the sun from reaching the skin directly.
#1 Nutrition
While most people do not think of diet as a preventative measure, the proper intake of nutritious foods can aid in skin cancer prevention, from the inside out. This is because plant-based foods help to increase the antioxidants in the skin that protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This is also true of foods that are rich in vitamin D. These dietary factors are very important when it comes to the skin’s natural ability to block harmful sun rays. Seek out a variety of foods such as citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables which can give the body a boost of vitamins and nutrients that stave off the damaging effects of direct sunlight.
#2 High SPF Sunscreen
Use sunscreen daily to add an additional layer of protection to the skin. Sunscreen should even be used on cloudy days as UV rays are still present. Even skin that is covered by clothing should still have sunscreen applied to it. Dermatologists and medical professionals suggest an SPF of at least 30, however higher SPFs can provide even more protection. For instance, an SPF of 50 can protect the skin by as much as 90 percent from UV rays. For the best protection use a highly effective broad-spectrum brand. Apply an ample amount of the product to the skin, applying an even coat that covers the entire body. This is especially true for often forgotten areas such as the ears, face and tops of the feet. For the best results, sunscreen should be reapplied at least every 2 hours.
#3 Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Researchers have found that excessive alcohol consumption is associated with higher rates of sun burn and skin cancer. This is because alcohol destroys the skin’s natural antioxidants and ability to protect itself from the sun. To reduce the risk of skin cancer due to alcohol consumption, do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol prior to direct exposure to sunlight.
#4 Seek Shade During Peak UV Times
The sun is highest in the sky between the hours of 10am to 4pm. While it may not be possible to avoid direct sunlight all the time, it is important to seek shade wherever possible during these peak hours. Also, create shade by wearing a hat or other protective clothing which can help to block the sun from reaching the skin directly.
#5 Be Mindful of Family Medical History
Family medical history is important when it comes to the likelihood of developing skin cancer. If there are other family members who have been diagnosed with skin cancer in the past, there is a greater risk that it may develop in the patient as well. Visit a doctor near you regularly to discuss any concerns regarding medical history that may lead to skin cancer. A medical professional will be able to perform tests and provide additional information regarding cancer prevention tips and how to live a healthy lifestyle.
#6 Check the Skin Often for Signs of Cancer
Also perform regular checks on the body for irregularities in the skin. In its earliest stages, skin cancer is very treatable. Pay close attention to moles, skin tags, or other growths that are changing shape or appearance. Also, if there is any bleeding contact a dermatologist or other medical professional immediately to test for skin cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is by far the easiest type of cancer to detect because it is so visible to the eye. Take the necessary precautions by paying attention to changes in the skin and potentially developing skin cancer before it becomes a major health problem.
Today, 90 percent of skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure. This means that people can take personal precautions to lessen their exposure to the sun which can prevent skin cancer. From dietary factors to the regular use of sun screen, there are various precautions that can be taken to protect the skin. Contact a doctor near you today to learn more about skin cancer preventative measures.
Family medical history is important when it comes to the likelihood of developing skin cancer. If there are other family members who have been diagnosed with skin cancer in the past, there is a greater risk that it may develop in the patient as well. Visit a doctor near you regularly to discuss any concerns regarding medical history that may lead to skin cancer. A medical professional will be able to perform tests and provide additional information regarding cancer prevention tips and how to live a healthy lifestyle.
#6 Check the Skin Often for Signs of Cancer
Also perform regular checks on the body for irregularities in the skin. In its earliest stages, skin cancer is very treatable. Pay close attention to moles, skin tags, or other growths that are changing shape or appearance. Also, if there is any bleeding contact a dermatologist or other medical professional immediately to test for skin cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is by far the easiest type of cancer to detect because it is so visible to the eye. Take the necessary precautions by paying attention to changes in the skin and potentially developing skin cancer before it becomes a major health problem.
Today, 90 percent of skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure. This means that people can take personal precautions to lessen their exposure to the sun which can prevent skin cancer. From dietary factors to the regular use of sun screen, there are various precautions that can be taken to protect the skin. Contact a doctor near you today to learn more about skin cancer preventative measures.