May is Skin Cancer Awareness month. Every year almost 5.8% cases of skin cancer arises in Pakistan . If we look at this in global perspective then almost 2 to 3 million non-melanoma skin cancers and over 132,000 melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed each year .
May is also known as Melanoma month . The chance of developing skin cancer especially Melanoma mainly depends on the skin type of the person, there is a 3 % chance of some with white skin to get this type of cancer, 0.1% for dark skin and 0.5% for tanned skin.
While like some cancers are linked with risks, for example smoking increases the risk of developing lung cancer . Similarly with skin cancer, if someone is exposed to the Sun for a very long time persistently then they are more likely to develop skin cancer.
There are many other reasons that causes skin cancer, over our lifetime our skin cells go through numerous damages and most of the time our skin cells have the ability to repair themselves but after some time when the damage is beyond what our skin cells can repair that’s when the cell starts to transform into a cancerous cell.
Having a weakened immune system can also put one at risk for developing skin cancer . A weak immune system is sometimes present at birth , or can also be present through when treatment is being done.
Skin Cancer Prevention
The most important thing is Sun Block. Sunburns increases the chance of developing skin cancer . It’s recommended to wear Sunblock SPF 50 in the morning and at night , with re-application every 2 hours and after swimming and sweating.
Other ways of skin cancer prevention is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and focusing on immune system.
Conclusion
Many countries in the month of May , set up Cancer awareness events and workshop. University students set up stalls and promote sunscreen importance .
If you ever notice any spot or any unusual mark , then immediately get yourself checked by your Consultant .