After a long dreary winter and drenching spring rains, the warmth of the summer sun can feel so good that we may forget the harmful effects of those warming rays.
That’s why the American Academy of Dermatology designates the first Monday in May “Melanoma Monday.” This observance reminds us that the risk of getting skin cancer is not only real–it’s one of the fastest growing cancers.
Did You Know?
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, accounting for half of all cancers.
- Current estimates are that one in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.
- Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is the most common cancer for 25- to 29-year-olds.
- According to estimates, more than 76,600 cases of melanoma will occur this year.
Once melanomas have metastasized, they are often deadly, but new research is giving us hope for new treatments.
Just in the last month, scientists found that gossypin, a flavone originally isolated from the hibiscus plant (H. vitifolius), inhibits the action of two gene mutations that commonly occur in people with melanoma. Gossypin treatment also reduced tumor volume and increased survival rate in mice transplanted with human melanoma tumors containing the two mutated genes.
In another recent study, researchers report that a virus-based melanoma drug TVEC is showing promising early results in a phase 3 trial.
Protect Yourself
Most skin cancers are preventable and survivable if you follow these basic steps:
- Prevent. Seek shade, cover up, and wear at least an SPF 15 sunscreen.
- Detect. Look for new or changing spots on your skin.
- Live. See a dermatologist if you spot anything changing, itching, or bleeding.
The good news is, you don’t have to give up your favorite outdoor activities or that sun-kissed glow to be sun safe. Just remember to wear sunscreen before going outdoors and instead of baking in the sun or a tanning bed, try sunless tanning sprays or lotions.
In addition to lowering your risk of skin cancer, protecting your skin from damaging rays also prevents premature aging—wrinkles and skin discoloration.
A Final Word
If you’re a parent with teenagers, you know that it’s often difficult to convey to them that they are not invincible. Unfortunately skin cancer often strikes young men and women with a history excessive tanning (both indoors and outdoors).
This video is a must-watch for parents and young people.
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