Skin Cancer Risk and Prevention

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At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know our Nature Coast patients are well acquainted with the sun and its potential dangers. However, May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and a good opportunity to review your risk and remember some helpful tips to prevent this disease which more than 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with every day.

What’s Your Risk?

It’s estimated 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Early treatment, however, translates into very high survival rates. One way to make sure the odds are in your favor is to know your level of risk. There are some risk factors you can’t change. These include:

  • Skin type

  • Genetics

  • Having red hair

  • Receiving an organ transplant

  • Sunburns you’ve had in the past

Prevention Pointers

There are several other risk factors you can control to decrease your chances of developing skin cancer.

  • Indoor tanning—don’t do it! Even one session can increase your risk of melanoma by 75%

  • Use protection—sunscreen needs to be applied daily—especially in our Florida climate. Remember the effects of UV radiation build up over time. Going out to get the mail, run errands and walking the dog can result in an accumulation of sun damage. In addition to sunscreen, wear hats and protective clothing that has sleeves and/or is made from fabric that shields you from UVA/UVB radiation. Use sunglasses that are UV-blocking too.

  • Put a window film on your car windows and in your home if there are places you tend to sit where the sun beats in.

  • Increase the antioxidants in your diet. New research reveals that certain nutrients may help prevent skin cancer. Strive for more beta carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C, D, and E, and zinc.

  • Stick with a strict skin exam schedule. You should self-examine the skin on your feet (remember toes and toenails) and the rest of your body monthly. Look for changes to moles and freckles or new marks on your skin. An annual exam by your physician is also recommended.

Skin cancer is highly treatable if caught in its early stages. If you have questions or concerns about the skin on your feet, Contact our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) at your earliest convenience for an appointment and let our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales check your feet.

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