Introduction - The chance of being afflicted with skin cancer is, unfortunately, a significant danger these days. In fact, approximately 4,300,000 Americans will come down with basal cell carcinoma (the most common type of skin cancer) each year and an additional 1,000,000 people will come down with squamous cell carcinoma (the second most common type). In total, about 18,000 people will die from...
Maybe it’s a mottled brownish spot of skin that’s changed size or color, or a mole that’s suddenly become uneven and asymmetric. And suddenly you're worried. Maybe we have skin that developed new coloration ranging from white, pink, and red to bluish-black. Skin cancer is a serious health concern, and it doesn’t discriminate. Anyone, at any age, can be affected. Let me say that again: anyone can get...
Cancer remains the second-leading cause of death in the United States, according to -the CDC-, overshadowed only by heart disease. We lose nearly 600,000 people each year to this mysterious and devastating cluster of diseases. But there may be hope on the horizon as, despite the high figure, cancer deaths have been on a steady decline. We have a few different shifts to thank for the positive turn,...
Those facing a melanoma diagnosis want nothing more than to beat the disease and move forward with life. But treatments have been, to this point, relatively painful. Now, a new, pain-free treatment may make serious inroads against this deadly form of skin cancer. Let’s take a closer look at this medical breakthrough. What is Melanoma? - Melanoma is cancer that starts in the melanocytes under the skin....
You know the risks of going to a tanning salon. You protect yourself with the appropriate SPF when you know you’ll be out in the sun. You even bring a hat along for those long days out in the sun. You’re doing all you can to protect yourself from skin cancer. Or are you? - Did you know your gel manicure could also be putting you at risk? - New Dangers at the Salon - Gel nail polish has become increasingly...
Who doesn’t enjoy the feel of the warm sun on their skin? Okay, some people don't like it at all. But many of us find it comforting, soothing, and just plain delicious. And for those of us who love it, we might be tempted to soak in a few rays every once in a while, but it seems like even a little sun exposure can be too much. Here are the facts on where the lines are and what to do. How Much Is Too...
Just weeks before summer was officially underway, the FDA published the findings of a study looking at sunscreen application in the Journal of the American Medical Association or -JAMA.- They found that the -active ingredients in sunscreen were being absorbed into the bloodstream- after application. Information like this can be concerning. The importance of sunscreen for the prevention of sun damage,...
Are you hoping to get more natural vitamin D in your life but fear you may face skin damage in the process? You don’t have to sacrifice the benefits to reduce your risks. Getting enough of the essential vitamin is actually pretty simple, and for many, supplements may still be avoidable if that's your choice. Contrary to popular belief, most people can get plenty of vitamin D from sunlight, even with...
Excessive exposure to the sun is hard on the skin because UV rays can damage cells. This damage is linked to -an increased risk for skin cancer-, and overexposure to the sun’s rays can cause premature wrinkling. Getting a sunburn or tan is a sign of skin damage, so the healthiest choice is to use sunscreen for protection from UV rays. Recent concerns about the safety of sunscreen- itself may have individuals...
Melanoma: It’s notorious for its low survival rate. It is considered a skin cancer, but it is really a cancer of pigment cells, which is why it can travel quickly all over the body, including the brain. Once considered a death sentence, advances have been made in recent years to extend the lives of those stricken with it. Early detection is vital. However, it is still one of the most deadly cancers...