Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Our expert, Saira George, M.D., addresses common myths about this disease and provides tips to reduce your risk.
Think you’re immune to skin cancer? It’s actually the most common cancer in the United States and largely preventable. Excessive sun or tanning bed exposure is the primary cause.
Over 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. While most skin cancers, like basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, are highly treatable, malignant melanoma is more serious.
The good news is you can lower your risk for skin cancer by understanding your risks and taking protective measures. Let’s debunk some common skin cancer myths.
Myth 1: Dark-skinned people don’t get skin cancer.
No one is immune to skin cancer. People of all skin colors, including African-American, Hispanic, and Asian individuals, can develop skin cancer.
Although skin cancer occurs more frequently in lighter-skinned people, darker-skinned individuals often receive diagnoses at later, more advanced stages due to lack of consideration for skin cancer on darker skin until it’s too late.
Myth 2: I need sun exposure to get vitamin D.
You don’t need prolonged sun exposure to maintain adequate vitamin D levels. Daily exposure and dietary sources provide sufficient vitamin D without the increased skin cancer risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
Myth 3: Only sun exposure causes skin cancer.
Sun exposure is the primary cause of skin cancer, but other factors include UV radiation from tanning beds, family history, increasing age, a weakened immune system, and certain skin characteristics such as fair skin, freckles, and multiple or unusual moles.
Myth 4: Higher SPF sunscreen provides better protection.
SPF protection doesn’t increase proportionately with the SPF number. SPF 30 absorbs 97% of UV rays, SPF 50 absorbs slightly more at 98%, and SPF 100 absorbs 99%. Opt for at least SPF 30 and remember, sunscreen alone isn’t foolproof—limit sun exposure and wear protective clothing.
Myth 5: Sunscreen contains harmful chemicals.
Sunscreens are regulated by the FDA and considered safe and effective. While concerns about sunscreen ingredients exist, options like mineral sunscreens containing zinc or titanium oxide offer simple alternatives for those wary of chemical ingredients.
Remember, regardless of sunscreen use, cover up, avoid peak sun exposure hours, and limit time in the sun.
Myth 6: Only older people get skin cancer.
Skin cancer can affect individuals of any age. Melanoma is the most common cancer in young adults aged 25-29 and the second most common in those 15-29 years old. Early sun exposure increases skin cancer risk later in life.
Myth 7: A base tan prevents sunburns.
There’s no safe tan. UV rays damage skin cells, triggering melanin production as a protective measure. However, a tan offers minimal protection and can be easily negated by additional UV exposure, leading to sunburn and further damage.
Myth 8: Sunscreen isn’t necessary in winter or on cloudy days.
UV rays are present year-round and can penetrate clouds, necessitating sunscreen use even on overcast or cooler days.
Myth 9: Tanning beds are safe.
Tanning beds emit harmful UV rays, increasing skin cancer risk, including the deadliest form, melanoma. Avoiding tanning beds and scheduling regular skin cancer screenings are essential.
Schedule a skin cancer screening today with Dermatologist in Northridge.