People who have had skin cancer removed are right to worry about the possibility of a recurrence. Even those who have never had skin cancer should know the risks.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five people in this country develop skin cancer at some point in their lives. After treatment, there is no guarantee you will see this form of cancer again, but recurrence is possible. Consider some ways you can prevent skin cancer from coming back.
Stay Out of the Sun
A common sense approach for reducing the risk of any occurrence of skin cancer is to avoid the potentially dangerous UV rays of the sun. If you do go outdoors, take precautions to protect your skin. Here are some simple tips to follow when you’re outside:
- Always ensure you have protective clothing on, such as a wide-brimmed hat, when you’re out in the sun for an extended period of time.
- Use sunscreen daily. Cover any exposed skin with sunscreen that has a sun protector factor (SPF) of at least 15, as recommended by the FDA.
- Wear sunglasses that offer 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays.
In addition, if you have had skin cancer previously, it is recommended that you take extra precautions when spending time outdoors. Please consult with your doctor for the proper guidance.
Schedule Follow-Up Care
After skin cancer removal, make sure to adhere to a regular follow-up care schedule. Follow-up care allows a trained healthcare provider to examine your skin for any signs of new cancer growth.
Follow-up care may include extended testing for anywhere from three months to five years. Testing may consist of advanced imaging such as a CT or MRI scan that can pick up growths the eye can’t see.
Do Self-Exams
To prevent recurrence of skin cancer, it also helps to check your skin regularly for any changes. If you notice any suspicious new marks or growths, report it to your doctor right away.
Book a Skin Cancer Screening in Plantation, FL
Our skin care team at Plantation Dermatology can examine your skin for any signs of cancer recurrence and recommend the best treatment. Call 954-577-5161 or make an appointment with us today.
