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Your daily habits can affect whether you can get skin cancer or not. Protecting your skin from the sun and avoiding smoking can tremendously reduce your risk of getting the condition. If you have a lot of moles or experience unexpected skin changes, you can rely on the best Chevy Chase, MD skin cancer specialist to diagnose and treat many types of skin cancer.
The most common forms of skin cancer include basal and squamous skin cancers. Another type is melanoma cancer.
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Causes and symptoms of skin cancer
The sun’s rays are one of the most significant causes of skin cancer. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays can damage your skin, causing cancer. Common symptoms include changes in a mole, scaly patches, and lumps and bumps.
Who is at risk of getting skin cancer?
You can be at a higher risk of getting skin cancer if you have red or blond hair, fair skin, a lot of moles on your skin, and if your family members are predisposed to the condition. If you have a family member who has undergone skin cancer, scheduling regular skin cancer screening can help you seek early treatment.
Skin cancer preventive tips
While habits like getting enough sleep and regular exercise will help keep your skin in top shape, you want to go a step further to prevent skin cancer. The following are tips you can use to minimize your risk of getting skin cancer:
Practice sun safety
Since the sun’s ultraviolet rays are a significant cause of skin cancer, it is important to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. If you are outdoors, consider staying in the shade, but if you can’t find a shade, consider clothing that will protect your body. For example, you can wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and clothes that cover your hands and legs.
Eat a balanced diet that promotes skin health
Your diet should contain nutrients that support the health of your skin. Consider lean proteins, nuts, fresh vegetables and fruits, and seeds. Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that protect cells from free radicals and cancer. Healthy fats from avocados and fatty fish like salmon and herring will provide your skin with a natural oil barrier and keep it hydrated.
Ensure to keep your skin moisturized by applying appropriate and suitable skin care. It would help to hydrate by drinking the required amount of water and hydrating fluids.
Go for regular skin screenings
Regular screening for skin cancer can help you detect the condition in its initial stages and seek early treatment, especially if you smoke or spend a lot of time in the sun. Treatment methods include cryotherapy, laser surgery, curettage and desiccation, chemical peels, and topical anti-cancer medication.
If you are at risk of skin cancer, visit Ali Hendi, MD, for skin cancer screening and treatment. Dr. Hendi and his team will evaluate your skin to detect cancerous tissues and offer treatment. Call or schedule your appointment online to improve the quality of your life.
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