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WHAT'S NEW
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8 things you need to know about skin cancer
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Dermatologists answer your questions about skin cancer, sun safety and when to see your doctor.
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By Janet Rowe
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5. What am I looking for?
Basal cell: These manifest as little red, pink or clear spots or bumps. They may bleed but when they heal, they don't go away. "If it's new and it's there for more than a couple of months, you should go in and get it checked," says From.
Squamous cell: These are scaly spots or rough patches that may be elevated. As with basal cell, see a doctor if you find one that's new and not going away.
Melanoma: Check your moles for any one of the five ABCDE factors (below). "One of these does not equal skin cancer," says Dytoc, "but see your physician or go to a dermatologist if you find one."
Anything that's new or changing deserves your doctor's attention.
Click for photos of skin cancers
6. How are suspicious lesions or moles treated?
The first step is usually to surgically remove it and send it away for a biopsy. Although the procedure can leave a small scar, a successful removal is a cure in most cases. If the cancer has spread, further surgery, chemotherapy or radiation may be needed.
7. How curable is skin cancer?
Very, especially if caught early. Dytoc cites a 98 per cent success rate for melanomas removed in early stages. "That's why it's important to check every month!" says Anderson.
8. I had sunburns as a kid. Is there something I should be doing now?
You can't turn back the clock. Every sunburn and tan affects the DNA in your skin. But using proper sun protection now to avoid burns and tans is crucial. "It's never too late," says Dytoc. Practise general healthy living to keep your immune system strong, says Anderson. "Your immune system is always killing precancerous and cancerous cells."
Moles: what to watch for
You should check moles regularly for any changes - but what should you look for? The handy ABCDE acronym will help you remember; see a doctor if you find any one factor on any mole.
Asymmetry: One side different from the other
Border : A nonsmooth, irregular border
Colour: More than a single colour
Diameter: Greater than about six millimetres
Evolution : A change in size, shape, colour, or if the mole begins to hurt
Keep your peepers as sun-safe as your skin with our summer eye care tips.
Page 2 of 2
 | This article was first printed in the June 2007 issue of Homemakers Magazine. Click to subscribe online and don't miss an issue. |
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