Love the Sun - Safely!

We San Diegans love the sun and get as much of it as we can during the summer months. That is why now is a good time to review the ways we can enjoy the outdoors safely; recognizing and ideally preventing skin cancer is essential. Arch Health Partners dermatologist Dr. Stephen Shewmake reminds us, “There is no such thing as a healthy tan. Whether you get it on the beach, in a tanning bed, or through incidental exposure, it’s bad news.” That’s because skin damage is cumulative; “the skin doesn’t forget,” says Dr. Shewmake.

Facts to note: 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime – in fact, more people develop skin cancer because of indoor tanning than develop lung cancer because of smoking, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Dr. Diane Scott explains the most common types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common, often appearing as a pink or pearly papule or a pink scaly patch. This type most often grows locally and does not spread to other parts of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common skin cancer, has a precursor stage, which appears as a pink patch with an adherent scale; the invasive form of SCC is usually a thicker, pink scaly plaque that can spread to lymph nodes or other organs. Malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer; this type may arise from pre-existing moles or it on its own. Early detection is crucial, before it spreads to lymph nodes or other organs. Unusual, benign moles may resemble melanoma, having features such as two shades of color, larger size, irregular borders, and/ or asymmetry. Periodic self-examinations aid in recognition of any new or developing lesion. Dermatologists recommend that we become familiar with our skin and our own pattern of moles, freckles and beauty marks. “Make sure to look at your entire body every month or two and consult a dermatologist promptly if any changes are observed,” says Dr. Scott, adding, “If it looks like a pimple, but it has been present for a month or longer, get it checked.” The “ABCDEs” of melanoma are A) asymmetry, B) border—irregular border, C) color—variations in color within the mole, black color, red or pink, D) diameter—greater than 6mm, or E) evolving—moles that are changing size, color, shape or look different than all the rest.

What about Vitamin D? Dr. Scott explains that sun-based vitamin D synthesis is associated with significant DNA damage, so it’s safer to get vitamin D from your diet, including fish, milk, orange juice, or supplements. Use of sunscreen is also a “hot topic” in a dermatologist’s office. These important products are proven to reduce or prevent sun induced damage to the DNA in skin cells, thus protecting from the development of cancer when chosen and used correctly. To make the right selection, 1) choose one that is broad spectrum (covers UVA & UVB) with an SPF of 30 or higher, 2) reapply every two hours if in the sun, and 3) for sensitive skin, choose one that is labeled “for babies.” Most importantly, whenever possible, seek the shade, cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses, and see your Dermatologist annually for a skin exam.

Dr. Diane Scott and Dr. Stephen Shewmake practice at Arch Health Partners locations in Poway and Escondido. They welcome patients torequest an appointment for routine, preventative skin checks, as well as for advanced treatment of acne, infectious diseases, warts, fungal and bacterial infections, psoriasis, rosacea, contact dermatitis, eczema, Pediatric dermatology and Geriatric dermatology. Learn more about Arch Health Partners multi-specialty medical group atwww.ArchHealth.org or call 858-675-3100.