SKIN CARE ASSESSMENT
PROBLEM
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. In 2006, the CDC noted that the rate of skin cancer varies by the state where you live. A state map is located on the Internet at www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/statistics/state.htm.
CAUSE
Skin cancer is frequently caused by damage from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Some people are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer. These risk factors include the following:
A.Fair complexion; blond/red hair; blue, green, or hazel eye color.
B.Advanced age with sun-damaged skin.
C.A history of a severe sunburn.
D.A history of spending long hours outdoors.
E.A history of x-ray procedures for skin conditions.
F.Genetic susceptibility.
PREVENTION/CARE
A.Protect yourself and prevent sun exposure to your skin by staying out of the harmful rays as much as possible, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This time frame accounts for approximately 70% of the harmful ultraviolet radiation.
B.If you are exposed to the sun, wear a sunscreen product with an SPF of 15 or greater at all times.
C.Wear hats that screen your face and neck, as well as your ears.
D.Clothing is available with sun-protective materials. Regular long shirts and long pants also help to protect your skin.
E.Sit in the shade to rest.
F.Do not use a tanning booth.
STEPS TO TAKE TO PREVENT YOURSELF FROM BEING A VICTIM OF SKIN CANCER
A.Examine your skin monthly:
1.Use a good light source and a mirror to see areas of your skin not clearly visible.
2.Examine your entire body closely.
3.Pay particular attention to areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, especially your face, lips, eyes, neck, scalp, and ears.
4.Monthly screening allows you to familiarize yourself with birthmarks and moles. Note the size, shape, and color of these marks. Note any changes in these marks, using the ABCDE
method:
a.Asymmetry: The shape of the mark should be noted. Any change in shape or irregularity of the mark needs to be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
b.Border: Look carefully at the border of the mark. If the border edge is ragged, notched, and not smooth, your healthcare provider needs to evaluate it.
c.Color: Note the color of moles. If you notice any change in color, or if you notice the mole to have several colors (brown, black, tan, red, etc.), you need to alert your healthcare provider.
d.Diameter: Measure the size of the mark and document it. Any change in size, especially if it is greater than 6 mm, should be brought to the attention of your healthcare provider.
e.Elevation: Note elevation of lesion, change in size, and any evolving changes of the lesion. You need to alert your healthcare provider if changes occur.
5.You should also evaluate lesions on your skin for any type of change. If the lesions begin bleeding or hurting, or change in texture or in any other way, your healthcare provider needs to evaluate the change.
6.Be alerted to any skin ulcers that do not heal within 1 month. Also, any new moles or lesions need to be evaluated by your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis of the type of lesion.
Activity: As tolerated, but protect yourself from sun exposure.
Diet: There is no special diet that will stop skin cancer.
Medications: There are no medications that prevent skin cancer.
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Any of the skin changes mentioned here that need to be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCE
American Cancer Society
250 Williams Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone 800-227-2345
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE