Five Facts About Skin Cancer You Probably Didn’t Know..

Skin cancer is America’s most common type of cancer. Because May is skin cancer awareness month, it’s important you know what skin cancer is, how it forms and 5 facts about skin cancer you probably didn’t know.

Let’s start with the basics, what is skin cancer? It’s when your skin’s DNA is altered from damage from uv damage and lack of SPF or clothing to protect you. 

Are there different types? Yes! There are 3 types of skin cancer, basal cell, squamous cell, and Melanoma. You’ve probably heard of melanoma, but did you know it can spread and take over your skin in as little as 6 weeks? Left untreated, skin cancer can spread to other parts of your body.

Here are 5 facts you probably didn’t know about skin cancer:

• Having more than 5 sun burns in  your lifetime more than doubles your chance of getting skin cancer.

• The most common areas skin cancer can develop are your scalp, face, nose, tops of ears, lips, neck, chest, arms. Think anywhere that has the most exposure to the sun. 

• Your skin creates a tan to protect you from a burn first before you burn.

• 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70 years old.

• Although the most common people to get skin cancer are those with lighter skin tones, your skin color does not render you immune from skin cancer.

The best steps to preventing skin cancer? WEAR SUNSCREEN. I promise you’ll still get that beautiful summer tan while wearing sunscreen. Also be diligent with checking your skin for any new moles, spots etc. Keep an eye out for odd shapes, jagged edges, burning, itching or pain.