Despite the fact that skin is one of the largest parts of our body and the most essential to our survival, we do not treat it with proper care and respect.
Cuts, bruises, burns – our skin has to take it all on its chest. How do we repay her? By ignoring all the signs and signals she sends us?
When moles, freckles or birthmarks appear, we don’t think it’s a big deal, but they can actually mean serious problems – such as melanoma, which is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one person dies every 57 minutes from skin cancer. And if you’ve experienced more than 5 sunburns in your life, your risk of developing melanoma is even triple!
However, there are ways to detect skin cancer symptoms in time. All you have to do is learn the instructions below and follow your body carefully. Please share this article, it could save the lives of your friends and family!
Birthmarks on the skin – how to identify?
Asymmetry
A normal, mild and harmless mole is always symmetrical. Melanomas, or cancerous moles, are usually irregular in shape. Therefore, an asymmetric mole is one that should absolutely be checked by a doctor.
Borders
Non-cancerous moles have smooth edges. Their outlines are clear and have an obvious shape. Melanoma skin lesions may be crimped, uneven, and their edges blurred. They do not have a clear shape. Such moles should be examined necessarily!
Color
A harmless mole usually has a shade of orange or brown that is even. Malignant lesions usually have many colors and shades. Uneven color distribution can be a sign of cancer.
Diameter
Mild moles are no larger than a pencil eraser, no more than 6mm in diameter. If the lesion is larger, the doctor should investigate it.
Evolving
The final point is the spread of malignant lesions.
If you’ve noticed that your body has more and more moles, changed shape, color or size, it could be a sign of melanoma. You should go to a specialist immediately!
What can be done to protect the skin and prevent cancer?
1. Start by using sunscreen every day – not just when you are at the beach or swimming pool. Make sure that the cream you use protects against UVA and UVB rays with a sunscreen of at least 15 SPF.
2. Avoid sunbeds that expose users to direct UVA and UVB rays. They cause premature aging and can lead to eye disease or cancer.
3. Examine every part of your body carefully, not just the obvious places. Although melanoma most often occurs on sun-prone skin, it can actually appear anywhere. Be sure to check your legs, toes and also your intimate area.
4. And the best way to prevent skin cancer is to see a dermatologist every year. It is known that it costs a bit, but does it matter when it comes to our lives?