Take care of your skin

Over the past ten years, skin cancers and melanomas have increased worldwide by about 30%. Prevention and early diagnosis are of fundamental importance.

Melanoma is the most common malignant skin cancer, according to data from Fondazione Melanoma Onlus: in Italy, it causes approximately 1,500 deaths each year out of around 7,000 diagnosed cases.

Family history plays a role, even though this cancer is not hereditary. People with very fair skin, or with numerous moles of large size and irregular shape, are at greater risk.

If surgical removal occurs at an early stage, when the lesion is still superficial and localized, the chances of recovery reach up to 95%.

It is essential to see a specialist immediately if a mole changes appearance, seems to be growing in size, changing shape or color, or if it causes discomfort.

A simple outpatient examination with a dermatoscope can, in many cases, save lives.

Excessive exposure to UV radiation and sunburns that damage cellular DNA increase the risk of skin cancers, but they are not the only contributing factors.

The Skin Cancer Foundation provides common-sense guidelines: avoid sun exposure during peak hours, protect yourself with clothing, hats, and quality sunscreens, and be cautious when taking photosensitizing medications.

The sun should not be demonized, as it is essential for stimulating vitamin D synthesis in the body, but one must always be careful not to endanger their health.