Sun Protection, Skin Cancer and Early Detection

The Skin Cancer Foundation has some recommendations helps to provide a comprehensive approach to preventing and treating skin cancer. Living in Bermuda means that there is a higher risk of skin cancer than people living in colder climates.

Click on the below titles for more information from The Skin Cancer Foundation.

Sun Protection

Try to stay out of the sun as much as possible. Go out for exercise early in the morning or later in the day.
Avoid sunburns by using SPF 50+ and reapplying throughout the day.
Your risk of melanoma doubles with a history of 5 or more sunburns in your life.
Dr. Curkova likes to recommend a mineral sunscreen of SPF 50 or more that should be reapplied if you’re out in the sun or sweating. A lip balm with SPF is also recommended if you’re on the water.

Early Detection

Self-examinations are important and you should know your skin. If something has changed or is new, inform your dermatologist.

Seeing a dermatologist on a regular basis for skin checks is important as they know what they’re looking for and how to treat early skin cancers.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the skin. These skin cells multiply quickly and can form malignant tumors. The main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma.
Melanoma is serious type of skin cancer that may require additional treatment after removal including lymph biopsies and/or systemic cancer treatment.