Each month we include an article on a recent health topic or issue of interest to the community. This
month we look at skin cancer and some of the warning signs.

RECOGNIZING THE WARNING SIGNS OF SKIN CANCER
By Joseph M. Masessa, M.D., F.A.A.D.

With the summer coming to an end, ideally, we all have had the opportunity to attend a local health department sponsored skin cancer screening. At the screening, we realized the benefit of an expert set of eyes scanning for any suspicious skin lesions or conditions. We have reviewed our risk factors for skin cancer and gained an education in how to reduce our risks. We have also learned that knowing the signs of pre-cancerous skin conditions may help avert a potentially deadly situation.

The most common pre-cancerous skin lesion is the actinic keratosis. It is a rough, sometimes raised spot that usually appears on the face or back of the hand. These areas of irregular, scaling, sandpaper-like texture are linked to excessive, long-term exposure to the sun. The lesions are usually painless and do not itch. Because of their delayed onset, they are predominant in people over the age of 40.

Actinic keratosis may turn into a form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma, which is characterized by an asymptomatic growth. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma has a high likelihood of invading underlying tissue and spreading throughout the body. It is important to see a dermatologist as soon as the growth is discovered.

While, many actinic keratosis lesions never become malignant (cancerous), it is recommended that these lesions be removed by a dermatologist, a physician who deals with the skin, its structure, functions, diseases, and treatments. If the lesion is located on a particularly visible area, minor cosmetic surgery may be necessary following the removal.

The best way to lower the risk of developing any type of pre-cancerous or cancerous skin condition is to properly protect yourself when outside:

Use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or more.
Reapply sunscreen often, especially if you are swimming or exercising.
Use waterproof sunscreen if needed - but remember, these must also be reapplied regularly.
Keep in mind that clothing is not an impermeable barrier to UV light.
Use common sense about your sun exposure and please remember to protect your children, too.

For more information about skin cancer screenings in your town, contact your local health department.

For more information about dermatology care, please call North Jersey Dermatology Center, P.C., 35 Green Pond Road, Rockaway, N J, (973)625-0600 or our Newfoundland, N. J. offices located at 7 Oak Ridge Road, (973)208-8110.