Page 8 - Boca Exposure - August '19

Page 8, Boca Exposure
WE BELiEvE iN long-
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Common Skin Cancer Myths
By Siperstein Dermatology Group to understand that sun protective behaviors do protect against
the touch of a button we can find the answers to our most UV damage that causes wrinkles and freckles. Additionally, it
We live in a world of endless information, where at
is extremely important for patients of all skin types to examine
pressing questions. While this has created a generation of great their skin closely and make an appointment with a board-
knowledge, it has also provided the platform to misinformation. certified dermatologist if they find any new, changing, growing
Here are some of the most common myths about skin cancer and or bleeding skin lesions on any part of their skin.
the answers from your favorite dermatology group!
3) If You Don’t Spend Time In The Sun Now, You Won’t
Cancer Get Skin Cancer
1) People With Darker Or Olive Skin Don’t Get Skin
I often hear this question from my patients: “Doctor, I don’t
Skin cancer does not discriminate between age, gender or understand. I am always wearing hats and sunscreen, so why am
race. Oftentimes, patients with darker skin types tell us that they I still getting skin cancers?” Sun damage is cumulative. Many
of my patients are from a generation where people thought that
do not wear sunscreen because there is no need or no risk of
skin cancer. While it is true that skin cancer is more common in sunburns and being tanned was healthy, and sunscreen did not
Caucasians, it is the most common type of cancer in the United
exist. Studies today show that a majority of skin cancers are
States, and it can affect anyone. A recent survey showed that due to sun you got before you were 18. Researchers think that
younger skin is more susceptible to UV damage. In fact, just
more than half of African-Americans have never worn sunscreen.
We try very hard to dispel this myth, as people of all skin colors five blistering sunburns during childhood increases the risk
can get all types of skin cancer. In fact, while melanoma, the of all types of skin cancer, but especially melanoma, the most
most dangerous form of skin cancer, is more common in lighter
fatal form of skin cancer, by 80 percent in adulthood. There are
works skin types, it is more likely to be diagnosed later in African- certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of melanoma that
Americans, and therefore has a worse prognosis and overall
patients cannot control, such as having light skin, light eyes, red
survival rate. Additionally, a certain type of melanoma, Acral hair, several abnormal moles, or family history of melanoma.
Lentiginous Melanoma, is more common in darker skin. This
However, regardless of your risk factors, safe sun behaviors are
type of skin cancer usually looks like an irregular dark mole on important at every age.
4) Only Raised Skin Lesions Are Worrisome, Flat Lesions
the palms and soles, which can often be mistaken for a dirty spot Are Not Dangerous
on the foot, or be hiding in between the toes. Bob Marley died
Skin cancers can come in all shapes and sizes. Often, they
and of a melanoma on the toe when he was only 36 years old. start out as a flat sore or flat mole and then grow in to a bump
2) Skin Cancer Can Only Occur In Areas Exposed To
The Sun or ulcer if not caught early. This is why it is imperative to
have at least annual full body exams by your board-certified
Bob Marley is another great example of the misconception.
Anyone can get skin cancer “where the sun don’t shine!” dermatologist. If we catch a skin cancer in the earliest stages
Marley died of an especially dangerous type of melanoma (when it is often flat), we will be able to treat it with a much
(Acral Lentiginous Melanoma) that can be found on the palms
smaller scar. Also, an early, superficial melanoma is likely to be
of the hands, soles of the feet, and even the nails. While all flat and at the stage where we can cure it with a simple in-office
skin types exposed to UV radiation can develop sunburn and skin cancer treatment surgery. However, once it grows deeper
DNA damage, researchers believe that certain types of skin (where it may show as a bump), it is at a higher risk for spreading
cancer, such as melanoma on the palms and soles, is more to other parts of your body and potentially can be life threatening.
likely due to genetic risk factors. Additionally, certain types of We recommend everyone to have a baseline skin cancer
squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common type of skin screening and annual skin exam, as concerning lesions are not
cancer, can occur due to non-sun-related causes, such as high always obvious. Call Siperstein Dermatology Group at (561)
risk warts of the genitals, areas treated with radiation therapy, 364-7774 to schedule an appointment with any of our board-
immunosuppression, and chronic wounds. While sunscreen certified dermatologists for your exam and to discuss any
would not prevent these types of skin cancers, it is important concerns or questions.
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