Summer is here and in full-swing! It’s time for playing outside, lying by the pool and going to the beach. The common theme for summer activities is spending time outside, and being outside means exposure to sunlight.

While a tan is appealing to many Americans, exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or a tanning booth over time can cause serious problems to your skin. Exposure to UV radiation increases your chance of developing skin cancer and accelerates the affects of aging.

What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer, the most prevalent form of cancer in the US, results from uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. Each year, 1 million people in the United States are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer. When rapid growth of these cells occurs, cancerous and/or noncancerous tumors can form on the skin.

Most cancerous tumors fall into the categories of basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. The least common third category, melanoma, is the most serious skin cancer and can spread if left untreated.

Interesting fact: The most common place for skin cancer is the nose.

What causes skin cancer?
The number one cause of skin cancer is exposure over time to UV radiation through sunlight or tanning beds. Other less common causes are exposure to repeated X-rays or certain chemicals.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?
The main symptom of skin cancer is a change of appearance on the skin, for example, a new mole, a skin lesion or a change in an existing mole. Listed below are the three types of skin cancer and most common forms they'll take on the skin.

Basal cell carcinoma – Most non-melanoma skin cancers fall into this category. These carcinomas are identified by small, smooth, pearly or waxy bumps on the face, ears and neck or a flat pink, red or brown lesion on the arms and legs.

Squamous cell carcinoma – A less common form of non-melanoma skin cancer, it is characterized by a firm, red nodule or a rough, scaly flat lesion. It may itch, bleed and become crusty.

Melanoma – Characterized by a pigmented patch or bump. Can resemble a normal mole, but usually has a more irregular appearance.

Am I at risk?
While skin cancer can affect anyone, people of lighter skin colors are at a higher risk. Age and gender are also factors. Most people diagnosed with skin cancer are between the ages of 40 and 60. Skin cancer is about three times more common in men than women. Your risk is also greater if you have close relatives who have had skin cancer.

How can skin cancers be diagnosed and treated?
When detected in the early stage, skin cancer is treatable. Early detection and early treatment are vital to the cure.

While treatment varies according to type and severity, your Piedmont HealthCare physician will treat skin cancer by performing a biopsy, by taking a sample of the tissue and examining the skin cells to identify the type. Sometimes the biopsy can actually remove all of the cancer tissue and no further treatment is needed.

If there is tissue remaining that needs to be removed, your Piedmont HealthCare physician will determine the best method for removing the skin cancer. Options include surgery to remove the tissue, scraping the skin cancer cells, cryosurgery (freezing the cells), laser therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and others.

How can I avoid skin cancer?
We know you cannot avoid being in the sun. While you’re outside this summer, follow these tips to help prevent skin cancer:
• Use sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF. Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every few hours, especially if sweating or swimming.
• Use cosmetic products and contact lenses with UV protection.
• Wear sunglasses with total UV protection.
• The peak UV radiation hours are between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. If possible, avoid direct sun exposure during these hours.
• Know your skin! Examine your skin monthly to watch for changes in color, moles or growths.
• Make sure your children are following these tips also. Sunburns during childhood can greatly affect a person’s risk of getting skin cancer later in life.

How can we help?
If you are concerned about skin cancer, consult your Piedmont HealthCare primary care physician or dermatologist. If you currently don't have a primary care physician or dermatologist, visit our physician directory to find the doctor who's right for you.

Sources: Dr. Stephen Scheibner of PHC and www.webmd.com.