Two ways to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer

Skin cancer is an extremely serious disease. As such, it's important to do what you can to minimise your risk of developing this illness. Here are two ways to avoid developing skin cancer.

Use sunscreen correctly

Most people are well aware of how important a role sunscreen plays in protecting their skin from UV radiation. When used properly, this product can drastically reduce a person's risk of developing skin cancer, even if they spend a lot of time outdoors. However, many individuals do not use this product correctly. They may apply their sunscreen sparingly (because they dislike the sticky texture) or in a slapdash manner (because they are a hurry). This is extremely problematic since these people may actually be increasing their chances of developing melanoma, by exposing their only partially-protected skin to the sun on a regular basis.

In order for your sunscreen to shield your skin from UV rays, it must be applied liberally and methodically. You should use large quantities every time you apply it, as you will only get the level of UVA and UVB protection stated on the bottle if you use generous amounts of the product. Additionally, you should apply it in a methodical manner, following the same 'route' around your body every single time, as this will ensure that every area of your body that will be exposed to the sun will be protected.

During your application routine, try to make a conscious effort to protect the body parts that are often forgotten, such as the nape of the neck, the lips, the ears, the feet and the backs of the hands.

Never skip a skin check appointment

If you want to reduce your chances of getting skin cancer, it is vital never to skip a skin check appointment. You might be tempted to do this if you're very busy and have not noticed any changes to the moles on your body, which are often the first signs of skin cancer. However, it is important to carve out time in your schedule for skin checks, even if you are fairly confident that you do not have skin cancer. It is possible that there may be a cancerous or precancerous mole somewhere on your body, that you have not noticed.

A doctor will be far more likely to find cancerous moles than you would. They will also be able to check certain areas of your body, such as your back, that you physically cannot. Their ability to identify pre-cancerous moles will ultimately ensure that these moles are cut out before they develop into full-blown cancer.



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About Me

How to Deal with Disease and Illness Hello! Are you interested in finding out how you can deal with various diseases and illnesses? If so, you have come to the right place. My name is Mike and I live in Alice Springs, Australia. I am not a doctor or a nurse, but I have been nursing various members of my family for many years now. During this time, I have spent many hours in the doctor's office, the hospital and the waiting room. As a result, I have learnt a lot of useful things which I would like to pass on to other people. I hope you find my new blog useful.

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