217;s still a good idea to stay out of the sun at midday and to wear protective clothing and hats. Some studies estimate that diet may be involved in forty to sixty percent of all cancers. A high fat intake increased the likelihood of skin cancer after exposure to UV radiation, while switching to a low-fat diet after exposure reduced the incidence of skin cancer. The National Academy of Sciences recommends a diet in which thirty percent or less of the calories come from fat. The National Cancer Institute, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and other health organizations support this recommendation. Once cancer develops, early detection and treatment are the best defense. Those with blonde or red hair should be especially vigilant. Self-exams are recommended, and any growth, mole, or discoloration that appears suddenly or begins to change, or any sore that appears and doesn’t heal should be brought to a doctor’s attention. Characteristics of cancerous moles are asymmetry, ragged edges, bleeding, itching or pain. Skin cancer is more common in people with light colored skin who have spent a lot of time in the sunlight. Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most common in places that have been exposed to more sunlight, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms. Skin cancer can look many different ways. The most common sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, such as a growth or a sore that won’t heal. Sometimes there may be a small lump. This lump can be smooth, shiny and waxy looking, or it can be red or reddish brown. Skin cancer may also appear as a flat red spot that is rough or scaly. Not all changes in the skin are cancer, but all changes should be brought to the attention of a doctor. For any type of skin cancer, treatment involves removing the lesion, usually in an outpatient procedure. The treatment goal is to remove or ...
