Skin Cancer: An Unrecognized Epidemic?

As we head on to the beach, let's not forget the horrible statistics: half of all new cancers are skin cancers - possibly triggered by tanning.

The statistics on skin cancer should make you grab the sun screen and a hat before you head outdoors, or perhaps cancel that appointment at the tanning salon.

Mayo Clinic Health Letter has some ugly facts to scare the freshly tanned crap out of you:

Half of all new cancers in the United States are skin cancers.

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer. Your chances of getting skin cancer double if you have had five or more sunburns.

The American Academy of Dermatology has labeled skin cancer an unrecognized epidemic.

Generally, your risk of developing skin cancer increases as you age because the effects of sun damage accumulate over time. Until recently, the more treatable non-melanoma skin cancers were considered a problem for people over age 50. However, the occurrence of these cancers in younger adults has increased sharply.

Researchers have documented the increase by tracking skin cancer incidence in adults under age 40 in southern Minnesota. Between 1976 and 2003, the incidence of basal cell skin cancers — a non-melanoma skin cancer — roughly tripled in women, to more than 30 women per 100,000. The rate slightly increased among men, from about 23 to nearly 27 per 100,000.

Typically, 90 percent of non-melanoma cancers develop on sun-exposed skin such as the head and neck. In the Mayo Clinic study, only 60 percent of the cancers were found on sun-exposed skin, leading to the suspicion that visits to the tanning booth might account for those cancers.

When you head outdoors, slather on the sunscreen to block the sun’s ultraviolet radiation exposure. Use generous amounts to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before you go out and reapply every two hours. Wear protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses. (source: American Academy of Dermatology)

Also, be sure to make your regular skin check appointments!
Call Dr. B today to schedule a visit! 973-635-5050

About Dr. Lisa Coppa Breslauer
Lisa Coppa Breslauer, M.D. is a graduate of the prestigious Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons where she graduated with high honors. She is a Board Certified Dermatologist and Member of the American Society of Mohs Surgery and American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. Before opening the Laser + Skin Institute in 2007, she was in private practice at Affiliated Dermatology in Morristown, NJ. Dr. Lisa Coppa Breslauer has successfully instituted a patient-friendly environment designed to treat people of differing ages, races and genders.

For more information, please contact the Laser + Skin Institute at 973.635.5050 or online at: http://www.lsinj.com

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Press Contact
Glenn C. Breslauer
973.635.5050
info@lsinj.com
Lisa Coppa Breslauer, M.D.
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