Is it Skin Cancer?

Although the vast majority of skin cancers are preventable, the disease remains the UK’s most common and fastest-rising cancer. Ignorance regarding the early signs and symptoms is widespread. As a reputable skin clinic in Beaconsfield, Bucks, we have a responsibility to use our presence and expertise to inform everyone about the importance of staying vigilant for skin cancer and to see us to determine whether a mole or similar lesion is benign or cancerous.

Why Take Action?

Melanoma (skin cancer) is one of the biggest killers among 15-34-year-olds. Experts estimate that by 2026, melanoma will become one of the most common forms of all cancers.

• Over the last twenty-five years, the rates of melanoma have risen faster than any other common cancer. It kills more people in the UK than it does in Australia.
• Early detection of melanoma is vital for survival
• There are around 2,400 deaths from skin cancer every year.
• 86% of melanoma cases are preventable.
• Education is key to reversing the soaring incidence rates.

Who is at Risk of Skin Cancer?

Skin Cancer does not discriminate when it comes to age, gender or skin type. All skin types can be damaged by UV radiation (UVR) from direct sunlight, and we are all at risk from developing the disease. However, these typically fall into the most at risk:

• Those with fairer skin that burns more easily are at greater risk.
• Sunbed users and active tan seekers are a greater risk due to intermittent intense and cumulative damage.
• Anyone with a history of sunburn, particularly in childhood or adolescence.
• Outdoor workers that spend regular time outdoors without protection.
• Mature skin that has accumulated UV damage over the longest period of time.
• Those with more than 100 moles over the entire body.
• A family history of skin cancer or melanoma.

What are the Risks of UVR?

UV is a known carcinogen to humans. Almost all melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun or sunbeds. Damage is cumulative, irreparable, increases with each exposure and can result in death.

The sun emits three types of UV rays – UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays are blocked by the ozone layer, whilst UVA and UVB penetrate our skin. UVB rays reach the outer layer of the skin – they are known as “burning rays” and are the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer. UVA rats penetrate the middle layer of the skin. They contribute to skin burning and skin cancer and are responsible for skin ageing.

Sunburn, reddening, peeling and even tanning of the skin is a clear indication of sun damage. When we burn, the superficial layers of the skin release chemicals that cause the blood vessels to expand and leak fluid. This process causes swelling, pain and redness. Without the recommended sun protection, UV radiation starts to penetrate deep into the layers of the skin, causing damage to the skin cells. Once the tan fades, the damage remains and can result in serious consequences over time.

Solar UVR cannot be seen or felt and is not related to temperature. It can pass through cloud, bounce off refective surfaces and is the primary cause of skin cancer.

Why is a sunbed or indoor tanning a problem?

Sunbeds are NOT safe! Research has proved that sunbeds give out the same harmful UV rays as the sun, but at a much greater intensity. They may well give out as much as 10 – 15 times more intensity than the midday Mediterranean sun. This will increase a person’s risk of cell damage and skin cancer.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified sunbeds as a group one carcinogen. This is the highest cancer risk category. Experts link the dramatic rise in the incidence of melanoma in the 15-34 age group to sunbed use in these young adults.

It is a common misconception that using a sunbed will protect the skin before going abroad or into direct sunlight for a period of time – it will not! It just increases cumulative damage and risk. The use of sunbeds will also increase premature ageing, skin sagging, wrinkles, dehydration to the skin and the significant reduction in collagen and elastin in the skin.

If you are worried or concerned about a particular lesion or mole, then speak to Skin Revision in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, as soon as possible. With their 20 years of experience and the help of their lesion-check dermatologists, they can give you a full report of the lesion type and whether it is cause for concern or not.

Call the clinic on 01494 341262 or email info@skinrevision.uk