November 15, 2023

South Africans at high risk of skin cancer: Expert tips on sun protection

Skin cancers are the most common type of cancer and can affect people of all ages and races, health experts have warned.

Dr Ayesha Omar, a dermatologist practising at Netcare Linksfield Hospital, added that in South Africa, high levels of ultraviolet radiation from the sun place residents at greater risk of developing skin cancer.

"The skin is our largest organ, and with South Africans' love of the outdoors, we have a high prevalence of skin cancers in our country," she explained.

Omar said that the most significant types of skin cancer are melanoma skin cancer, and basal cell and squamous cell cancer, which are categorised as non-melanoma cancers.

"Non-melanoma cancers can usually be treated successfully if detected early," she said.

But this is not the case with melanoma, which is more serious because it has a tendency to spread.

"It can develop within a mole you already have on your skin or appear suddenly as a dark spot on the skin that looks different from the rest," said Omar.

The dermatologist said that it is important to visit your dermatologist if you answer "yes" to any of the following:

A for asymmetry: is one side of the mole bigger or a different shape from the other?

B for border: is the outline of the mole irregular?

C for colours: does the mole have multiple colours or shades?

D for diameter: is the mole larger than 6mm in diameter or rapidly growing?

E for evolution: has the mole changed? Is it bleeding or itchy?

"Early detection is key and any suspicious mole should be checked by a dermatologist for any potential abnormalities," Omar warned.

She added that, if needed, the mole should be surgically removed and sent for histo-pathology to determine whether further investigation and referral to a surgeon and/ or oncologist may be needed.

Individual risk factors

Omar pointed out that the recommended frequency of screening depends on one's individual risk factors, which a dermatologist will assess, but it is usually annually.

"People of all races can be at risk for skin cancer, particularly those who have a family risk of cancer or have had cancer previously, people who smoke, immuno-compromised individuals and those taking immuno-suppressant medications," she said.

Omar added that fair-skinned people, especially blondes and redheads with light-coloured eyes, are at high risk because their skin has less melanin pigment, which offers some natural protection against skin cancer.

"People who have lots of freckles and moles should also discuss their personal risk with a dermatologist," she said.

Defend yourself from the sun

The dermatologist cautioned that there is no such thing as a "healthy tan".

"Apart from the sun's UV rays, tanning beds also pose a serious risk," said Omar.

"People working outdoors and those playing sports such as water polo, cricket, golf, bowls and others spending hours in the sun must take extra precautions to protect their skin."

Sun facts

Omar also provided the following facts about the sun:

- South Africa's average UV index is often extreme.

- Avoid the sun between 10am and 3pm.

- UV damage can still occur in the shade, under water and on cloudy days.

- Radiation from childhood sun exposure can cause skin cancer in later life.

The dermatologist's advice about sunblock:

- Apply sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 as part of your daily routine.

- Apply at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors.

- Reapply regularly every two hours, and more often if you swim, perspire, or towel it off.

- Check expiry dates and that your product is endorsed by the Cancer Association of SA (Cansa).

Omar's notes regarding sun barriers:

- Wear a wide-brimmed hat.

- Use a parasol, umbrella, or wrap to shade yourself from the sun.

- Choose items endorsed by Cansa.

- Sun sleeves and clothing can help limit sun exposure.

- Talk to your optometrist about UV protection in your choice of glasses or sunglasses.

Omar also warned that South Africans should take the risks of skin cancer seriously and not become complacent during any time of year.

"Everyday precautions against UV radiation and dermatological screenings are an investment in your long-term health, with greater awareness, lives can be saved," she said.

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