"Study reveals melanoma susceptibility in men and women: Latest findings on the prevalence of sun-induced skin cancer in various bodily regions"
Sun's Rays and Skin Cancer: The Dark Side of Your Smartphone's Weather App
Ever wondered why you check the UV index along with the weather forecast on your phone? Well, turns out it's not just about predicting the sun's warmth or rain. That number you see tells you the level of ultraviolet radiation, and if it's above 3, any sun exposure without protection is risky, docs warn. Why? Because the risk of melanoma, a rapidly spreading and aggressive type of cancer, increases.
Sadly, melanoma cases have been on the rise in recent years. Dr. Andrei Kaprin, Russia's chief oncologist and academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, explained in an interview with "KP" that our skin, constantly exposed to various aggressive factors, is particularly vulnerable. Unsurprisingly, direct sunlight and sunburns play a significant role in tumor development. Genetics and nevi (moles) also play a part.
Recently, researchers from British Cancer Research UK (CRUK) conducted a study focusing on body parts affected most frequently by melanoma among British patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2021. Guess what? The location of melanoma differed significantly between men and women.
WHAT THEY FOUND OUT
- In women, melanoma most often appeared on the legs and thighs (35%), while in men, this area was affected least frequently (in just 13% of cases).
- In men, a majority of tumors (40%) developed on the torso: back, chest, and abdomen, while in women, melanoma was found almost twice as rarely in these areas.
- Men also showed a significantly higher rate of melanoma on the head and neck (24% compared to 13% in women).
Why the differences? CRUK experts believe that clothing choices play a crucial role. Men typically expose their skin during warm weather, while women wear shorter clothes that leave their legs unprotected. Additionally, men's larger torso and women's larger surface area on the legs could be factors, while women's hair offers better protection for their heads and necks than men's.
HOW TO REDUCE RISKS: SUN PROTECTION GUIDELINES
To avoid melanoma, it's essential to prioritize sun protection during warm weather, advises Fiona Osgathorpe, head of medical information at Cancer Research UK. Here are the key safety rules:
- Steer clear of direct sunlight between 11 am and 4 pm when UV radiation levels are highest. Indoors or shade are your best bet.
- Apply sunscreen with SPF 30-50+ 30 minutes before going outside. Cover all exposed skin, and reapply every 2-3 hours or immediately after swimming at the beach.
- Don't forget to cover up. In peak sunlight, wear hats with wide brims, sunglasses, and loose clothing that covers shoulders and legs. A handheld sun umbrella can also be helpful.
While melanoma was once one of the deadliest cancer types, advancements in targeted drugs and immunotherapy have greatly improved treatment outcomes. However, early detection is key – spotting it early increases the chances of saving a life.
STAY INFORMED!
- Red Flags: If you notice asymmetry, irregular edges, bleeding, a change in color, enlargement, or significant change in a mole over 4-6 months, consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
- Prevention Stats: 92.2% of melanoma cases can be prevented by reliably guarding skin from UV rays.
Sources:- Skin Cancer Foundation- Mayo Clinic- Cancer Research UK- American Cancer Society
- The study by British Cancer Research UK (CRUK) revealed that women are more likely to develop melanoma on their legs and thighs (35%), while in men, this area was affected least frequently (13%).
- Experts from CRUK attribute the difference in melanoma locations to clothing choices, as women often wear shorter clothes that leave their legs unprotected, while men typically expose more skin during warm weather.
- To reduce the risk of melanoma and other skin-related medical conditions, it's important to follow sun protection guidelines such as staying indoors or in shade during peak UV radiation hours, applying sunscreen with SPF 30-50+, and covering up with hats, sunglasses, and loose clothing during peak sunlight.
