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Exposure to UV radiation is an important risk factor for skin cancer for everyone. However, some people are at significantly greater risk, compared to the general population.
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Family history - The risk of cutaneous melanoma (skin cancer) is more than doubled where there is a family history of the disease in a close relative (a parent, brother, sister or child). |
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Personal history - Skin cancer is related to sun exposure, which is a cumulative process that affects whole areas of skin. A previous diagnosis of skin cancer indicates that the affected skin is at increased risk of developing cancer.
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Immuno suppression - A healthy immune system is able to detect and remove abnormal skin cells. Suppression of the immune system removes this protective “umbrella” and increases the risk that an abnormal cell will develop into a full-blown cancer. Various diseases or medications may affect your immune system. Due to the medication the non melanoma skin cancer rate in transplant patients is more than 100 times the rate in the general public. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for any question related to effect or side effect of your medication.
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Are you at risk Questionaire (PDF)
Are you at risc – Transplant Patient (PDF)
Overview of Drug Groups (PDF)
What can I do to reduce my risk?
If you are at special risk (e.g. due to immunosuppression) the following tips are a good start toward helping to
prevent skin cancer. Nevertheless you should consult your doctor
regularly!
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Practice Sun Protection
- Wear protective, tightly woven clothing, sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat
- Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor of 50
- Use sunscreen EVERYDAY to all sun exposed areas (head, neck, hands, forearms)
- Make a habit of sunscreen application, applying sunscreen as part of your morning bathroom routine
- Plan outdoor activities to avoid sun exposure between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest
- Avoid commercial tanning booths
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Perform self-skin examinations and see a dermatologist
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Examining your skin monthly for precancers is essential for an early
treatment. Check for any new or changing growths including pink patches
or spots, scaly growths, bleeding spots, or changing moles.
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Regularly visit a dermatologist to check for any skin changes. He may
be able to notice suspicious growths and spots before they become
apparent to you.
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