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Skin cancer has become a growing concern worldwide, with 2-3 million non-melanoma and 1,32,000 melanoma skin cancer cases reported every year globally. One of every three cancers diagnosed is skin cancer. However, less than 1% of people are diagnosed with skin cancer in India. Skin cancer cases are on the rise in India due to rapid urbanisation, leading to high pollution from vehicles and smoke from industries. The major cause of this cancer is excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, especially during childhood. This type of cancer can easily be prevented by limiting exposure to UV radiation by using sunscreen. This blog explores the impact of sunscreen on skin cancer prevention.
About Skin Cancer
When abnormal cell growth occurs in the skin tissues, it leads to the development of skin cancer. These cells grow faster after prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer can affect anyone, though certain factors can increase the risk. If diagnosed in its early stages, skin cancer can be cured with effective treatment.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancers are mainly of three types:
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Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) occurs in the basal cells of the lower part of the epidermis and is the most common type of skin cancer. Though it rarely spreads to other parts, it can cause local damage if not treated early.
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Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common cause of skin cancer, which occurs in the squamous cells in the outside skin layer. SCC can spread to other parts of the body more aggressively.
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Melanoma is a life-threatening and serious type of skin cancer. It occurs in the melanocyte cells in your body and is responsible for melanin production. If not detected or treated early, it spreads to other body parts.
To learn more about the types of skin cancer, visit our expert oncologist in Broadway.
Impacts of Sunscreen on Skin Cancer
Exposure to UV rays is responsible for skin cancer and other skin damage, resulting in unwanted skin changes. This damage accumulates over the years, leading to significant skin issues. However, wearing sunscreen protects your skin from the various harmful effects of UV rays. Here are some benefits of sunscreen in skin cancer prevention.
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Reduces Exposure to UV Radiation: Sunscreen acts as a barrier, blocking, absorbing, or reflecting the sun’s harmful UV rays. By reducing the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the skin, sunscreen significantly lowers the risk of DNA damage, which can lead to various types of skin cancer.
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Prevents Sunburn: UVB rays from the sun are responsible for sunburn, which can burn you year-round, even on cloudy days. Thus, wearing sunscreen daily prevents sunburn by blocking UV rays. Frequent sunburns during childhood are a major risk factor for developing skin cancer later in life.
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Protects Against Premature Ageing: UV radiation not only increases the risk of skin cancer but is also responsible for the premature ageing of the skin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sunspots. UV rays damage collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin supple and firm. Thus, regular sunscreen usage protects your skin from premature ageing for healthier and younger-looking skin.
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Reduces the Risk of Actinic Keratosis: This type of condition is caused by prolonged exposure to the sun and is characterised by rough and scaly patches on the skin. It is a precancerous condition that can or cannot become cancerous. So, as a precaution, they are generally removed. Sunscreen protects the skin from UV radiation, helping to reduce the risk of actinic keratosis.
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Protects Against Melanoma: The majority of melanoma, a severe form of cancer, is caused by sun exposure and sunburns. Applying sunscreen protects you from these risk factors, reducing the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer.
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Reduces the Occurrence of Other Skin Cancers: Many studies have shown that wearing sunscreen above SPF 15 reduces the risk of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These common skin cancers are also linked to the harmful effects of UV radiation; thus, sunscreen protects the skin from such rays.
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Improves Overall Skin Health: Protecting and maintaining skin health are equally important. Thus, regular sunscreen use in your skincare regimen protects the skin from many skin issues, such as sunburns, sun spots, premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer, contributing to the skin’s overall health.
Conclusion
Skin cancer mostly occurs on the face, head, and neck due to sun exposure. However, wearing the best sunscreen to prevent skin cancer is crucial. Along with sunscreen, adding other sun safety practices like wearing protective clothing, sun shades, caps, or hats to your daily routine can significantly lower the risk of skin cancer and contribute to long-term skin health. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are important; thus, seek consultation at our oncology hospital in Broadway, for early skin cancer screening to prevent serious health issues. Check our blog page for the latest medical updates.
FAQ's
Any change in your skin—new growth or a change in existing growth or mole—are the early signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer symptoms include:
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A new mole or changes in existing moles
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A waxy bump on your face, neck, or ears
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A flat, pink, or red-coloured bump or patch
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Crusty-looking scars
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Scar-like appearance on the skin
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Unhealing wounds or sores
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A rough, scaly lesion with itching
If you experience any type of change in your skin, seek consultation from our expert oncologists.
Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of colour, age, or sex, but some people are more susceptible. These factors increase the skin cancer risk, such as:
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Blue or green eyes
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Lighter skin colour
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Sensitive skin that gets red, burns, or freckles in the sun
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Blond or red hair
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Family history of skin cancer
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Older people
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Large number of moles
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Have actinic keratosis
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Use tanning beds
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Have a history of sunburns
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Spend more time outside in the sun
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Live in a high-altitude climate
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Having an organ transplant
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Taking immunosuppressant medicines
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Exposed to UV light therapy for treating other skin conditions
Skin cancer treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. These skin cancer treatment options may be used alone or in combination, including:
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Cryotherapy
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Excisional Surgery
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Mohs Surgery
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Curettage and Electrodesiccation
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Chemotherapy
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Radiation Therapy
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Immunotherapy
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Photodynamic Therapy
Doctors recommend using sunscreen on all skin areas not covered by clothing. The sun emits harmful UV rays throughout the day, even on cloudy days. So, wear sunscreen with SPF 15 and above every day, especially 15 minutes before going out.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our Oncology Department or visit our website.
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