dermatologic disorders
Overview of Skin Cancer
Prevention of Skin Cancer
Because many skin cancers are likely associated with ultraviolet (UV) exposure, a number of measures are recommended to limit exposure. Sun avoidance: Seeking shade, minimizing outdoor activities between 10 AM and 4 PM (when sun's rays are strongest), and avoiding sunbathing and the use of tanning beds Use of protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and broad-brimmed hats Use of sunscreen: At least sun protection factor (SPF) 30 with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, used as directed (ie, reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating); should not be used to prolong sun exposure Current evidence is inadequate to determine whether these measures reduce incidence or mortality of melanoma; in nonmelanoma skin cancers ( Basal Cell Carcinoma and Some professional organizations support clinical examination and self-examination to screen for skin cancer; however, the US Preventive Services Task Force has not found sufficient evidence to do so for the general population. (See also the US Preventive Services Task Force summary of recommendations forscreening for skin cancerandcounseling about skin cancer.) High-risk patients, such as those taking immunosuppressants, those with a personal or strong family history of skin cancer, or those with a known, increased susceptibility to skin cancer because of specific genetic mutations or environmental exposures, should be considered for routine skin cancer surveillance. 1.Green A, Williams G, Neale R, et al: Daily sunscreen application and betacarotene supplementation in prevention of basal-cell and squamous-cell carcinomas of the skin: a randomised controlled trial.Lancet354(9180):723-729, 1999. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(98)12168-2 