Melanoma Knows No Season

This article was previously published on Dr. James Goydos’ Wordpress November 2021.

The nights are getting longer, and the days are getting shorter and cooler as the clocks have gone back for part of the world. As many enjoy the transition into autumn and the coming winter months, it is easy to forget how we remain vulnerable to the sun, despite it being a more common concern during the summer. But skin cancer knows no season. The skin remains vulnerable to developing harmful skin lesions year-round, regardless of the weather.

While some cancers may be more likely to develop across certain age groups or sexes, skin cancer does not discriminate. Males, females, young, old, and everything in between — are all potentially vulnerable to becoming one of the many millions diagnosed with skin cancer.

“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting humans and is one of the most preventable types of cancer through education and public awareness.” — Dr. James Goydos

Studies show that one’s risk of developing melanoma, one of the more aggressive forms of skin cancer, doubles when one has five or more sunburns. However, it only takes just one blistering sunburn in adolescence to more than double the risk of developing melanoma. However, regular use of at least SPF 15 has been shown to reduce the risk of developing melanoma by 50%, and the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by approximately 40%.

Skin cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but there are steps one can take to reduce their risk. Genetics and other variables can influence one’s predisposition, but diet and lifestyle are both importance considerations when it comes to cancer risk. Taking simple steps to safeguard the skin can go a long way towards reducing your risk.

Awareness of the risk of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer is the first step

Having awareness of one’s risk is one of the first steps one can take to reducing their risk. Being aware of one’s vulnerability can help increase the likelihood that one will take precautionary measures to practice safe skin. Using sunscreen regularly, avoiding being outdoors during times of peak UV index, and wearing UV protective clothing are all easy ways to decrease one’s exposure to harmful radiation which can damage skin cells.

Although protecting the skin is often more top of mind during the summer months, the sun’s rays shine through year-round. Ultraviolet radiation can penetrate through the sky on cloudy days, rendering the skin vulnerable. The clouds do reduce some of the rays which reach the skin, but they do not block all of them. UVA rays specifically still reach through on cloudy day. When choosing a sunscreen, be on the lookout for broad spectrum sunscreens, as these protect against UVA and UVB radiation. UVA rays are one of the culprits behind premature aging such as wrinkling and age spots, and UVB rays can burn the skin. Both rays can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

What does skin cancer look like?

Taking steps to protect the skin form harmful UV radiation is an easy way to help reduce your risk of developing melanoma and other forms of skin cancer, but learning to spot skin cancer is important, too. Thankfully, many forms of skin cancer are those that you can “see”: they are often visible to the naked eye. While this may not be the case for all forms of skin cancer, especially those which may have metastasized or spread to other tissues, many forms of skin cancer can be spotted with a regular skin check.

When checking your skin, use a full length mirror and a hand mirror to ensure you can survey your whole body, from the top of the head to the soles of the feet. Skin cancer can crop up between the toes, on the nailbeds, and other places one may not think to look. Learn more about how to check yourself for skin cancer by familiarizing yourself with the ABCDE’s of melanoma, too.

The ABCDE’s of melanoma provide an easy acronym one can use to remember what to look for when examining the skin:

There are several forms of skin cancer, and learning how to check for multiple forms can be a great asset to your skin health. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of cancer, and can often be disguised as a more benign lesion or skin irritation such as acne or a wart.

Skin self-checks should be done at least once a month throughout the year, but should not be a replacement for regular check-ins with a medical professional. Get your skin checked at least annually. You may need more frequent checks depending on your health needs, so be sure to verify the most appropriate schedule with your doctor. Information you have gathered during your monthly self-checks may be helpful at your next appointment.

The weather is changing, but skin cancer knows no season. Be sure to keep up a healthy skincare routine around the clock, as taking these simple steps can help reduce your risk of skin cancer or increase your chances of early detection.

About Dr. James Goydos

Dr. James Goydos is an expert in melanoma research and specialist in surgical oncology with an M.D. from Rutgers University. With over 20 years of experience as a Professor, Surgeon, and Clinical Trial Lead, he is a leading expert in his field.

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