Skin Cancer: A Growing Concern

Understanding the basics of the immunological mechanisms that trigger this solid tumor is crucial to stop the propagation of melanoma through the lymphatic and blood vessels, preventing metastasis to vital regions of the body.The most common sites of metastasis are skin and subcutaneous tissue, followed by lungs, liver, bones, and brain.

Table of Contents:

• Statistics
• Risk factors
• Insights from recent investigations
• Skin cancer prevention

Statistics

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), one of the most common types of cancer affecting Americans is skin cancer. Around 9,500 people are diagnosed with this type of solid cancer daily and 1 out of 5 Americans will develop this prior 70 or in their lifetime. The total yearly cost for Skin Cancer treatment is 8 Billion American Dollars. May is National Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month.

Risk factors

The incidence depends on the following factors:

Men have the highest incidence of skin cancer after the age of 50 years. Most jobs that are requiring outdoor labor are taken by men and most of them do not take their precautions, leading to further health problems.

Non-hispanic white populations are more likely to develop skin cancer in their lifetime, 1 out of 38 people from this cohort will develop a melanoma. In contrast, people with stronger pigmentation and more melanin in their skin such as Hispanic, Asians and Afro Descendants, are more protected. 1 out of 167 hispanic people will develop melanoma and 1 out of 1000 afro americans will develop this aggressive skin cancer as well. Although this problem is more likely to be the problem of caucasian people.

Insights from recent investigations

Investigations have found an average 5-year melanoma survival rate of 67 % in Afro Descendants versus 92% in white people. In the last two decades the rate of melanoma has increased by 20% among the hispanic population. When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%. However, you could develop a scar after the surgery to remove the mass, so it is much better to prevent it by using sunscreen.

Skin cancer is increasing in the globe at a rate of 5.42%, however, it is expected that 51% of the new cases will come from Americans. Women have the highest incidence of skin cancer before 49 years old. The body areas where it is more common are in the legs and arms.

Skin cancer prevention

Skin cancer prevention is a critical aspect of maintaining skin health and reducing the risk of developing melanoma. Proactive measures and simple lifestyle changes can significantly decrease the chances of developing skin cancer. One of the ways to prevent skin cancer is regularly applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) which can shield the skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of the body, including the face, neck, ears, and the back of the hands. Reapply every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.

Glia Beauty Sunscreen was tested by Dermatologist Zoe Draelos, MD in North Carolina, one of the states of the South East Coast where more incidence of skin cancer is found according to Blue Cross Shield Insurance. Suitable for fair and sensitive skin it helps to prevent sunburn by blocking UV rays and prevents the formation of hyperpigmentation.