The safest method of protecting ourselves against skin cancer is avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during the day, between 11am and 4pm, when the negative potential of ultraviolet radiation is the highest. Contacted by IPN, oncologist Nicolae Dolganiuc said those who want a nice tan, without sunburn, should sunbathe on the beach or near pools between 7am and 11pm or after 4pm.
The doctor said the first signs of alarm are related to the modification of the exterior of the skin, like an irritation, excrescent, a wound that does not heal. While symptoms of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma vary, an unusual skin growth, bump or sore that doesn’t go away may be the first indication of a non-melanoma skin cancer.
Basal cell carcinomas on the head or neck may first appear as a pale patch of skin or a waxy translucent bump. It may be possible to see blood vessels in the center of the bump or there may be an indentation in the center. If the carcinoma develops on the chest it may look more like a brownish scar or flesh-colored lesion. As the cancer develops, it may bleed if injured or ooze and become crusty in some areas.
Regular examination of the skin for any new or unusual growths, or changes in the size, shape or color of an existing spot, is key to finding and treating skin cancers early. If anything suspicious is found, an oncologist-dermatologist should be consulted immediately.
Nicolae Dolganiuc said it was proven scientifically that the whiter skin contains less melanine and is much more affected by UV radiation. That’s why a blond or russet person with eyes of a light color is much more predisposed to the appearance of skin cancer than the brunets.
To prevent skin cancer, the doctor recommends avoiding prolonged exposure to sun, wearing clothes that would cover the skin as much as possible and using sunscreens with a protection factor higher than 15, preferably 30.
As to children, these should not be exposed to the sun during the first year of life. After one and up to the age of 10-11, the children should be protected with sunscreens with a protection factor of 50. Children should be taken for a walk in the open air between 8am and 10am and after 6pm.
