With nearly 1 000 cases diagnosed at Tygerberg Hospital each year skin cancer is a common yet preventable cancer.
Prevention can occur by sharing facts about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day and encouraging people to check their skin for warning signs.
Skin Cancer Awareness Month runs from 1 December 2023 to 31 January 2024, and emphasises the importance of protecting skin from the sun and reduce the chance of developing skin cancer. This form of cancer can almost always be cured when it is found and treated early. So it is a good idea to check one’s skin regularly for new growths (such as moles or lumps) or changes in old growths. Seek medical assistance immediately if you notice a change.
Tygerberg Hospital is a leading institution in skin cancer treatment. Most cases the hospital deals with annually are linked to sun exposure, making prevention a key focus.
Dr Suretha Kannenberg, a dermatologist there, emphasises the need for public awareness and proactive measures. “The most common skin cancers, squamous cell and basal cell cancers, typically develop in fair-skinned individuals in sun-exposed areas. However, darker-skinned individuals can also be affected, albeit less frequently and with different appearances.”
Melanoma, a particularly dangerous form of skin cancer, can affect individuals of any skin colour. Early detection is crucial for favourable outcomes. Regular skin checks are essential, especially for new moles appearing after the age of 45 or changes in moles.
“Pay attention particularly to wounds or sores that don’t heal, especially in sun-exposed areas, which are curable if treated early,” Kannenberg said.
“Sun damage leading to skin cancer occurs over many years, starting in childhood. Certain individuals, especially those with suppressed immune systems, are at a higher risk. If you’ve had one skin cancer, regular follow-ups are crucial.”
Kannenberg recommends avoiding the sun from 10:00 to 15:00, wearing protective clothing, using hats and sunglasses and regularly applying sunscreen with SPF30+ for dark-skinned individuals and SPF50+ for fair-skinned individuals.
“Sunscreen is approved for use from 6 months and older, so keep babies younger than six months out of the sun completely. Most sun damage occurs before age 18, underscoring the need for vigilant sun protection in children.”
Follow this helpful guide, the ABCDE of melanomas, to recognise potential signs:
