Rough spots can indicate skin cancer

To prevent skin cancer regularly scour skin for rough spots and calluses

06/21/2013

Skin cancer has many faces. For example, rough areas, indurations and calluses can be a precursor to malignant tumors. Experts therefore advise to regularly scan the skin for anomalies and seek a dermatologist if uncertain. The sooner skin cancer is detected, the greater its chances of recovery.

Actinic keratosis may be a precursor to skin cancer
If scaly, hardened, rough or red skin is the result of too much UV radiation, it can be a so-called actinic keratosis. Like the European Skin Cancer Foundation (ESCF) on the occasion of its nationwide awareness campaign „Do not let yourself be roasted: safe through the solar time“ In about ten percent of cases, a fair skin cancer develops from the skin anomaly. This cancer is newly diagnosed in Germany every year in more than 200,000 people. Light skin cancer occurs mainly on skin exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears or décolleté. Happily, the chances of a cure with timely treatment are good. „The mortality rate has not risen as dramatically as the growing number of skin cancers predicts“, reported Professor Matthias Augustin, DDG representative. „All forms of skin cancer, which are detected at an early stage, have a high chance of recovery.“

According to the Foundation, occupational groups who work in the fresh air often have a particularly high risk of developing skin cancer. „In comparison to the rest of the population, employees with long-term outdoor activities have an approximately 100 percent higher risk of development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in Germany“, explained Professor Thomas Diepgen, Medical Director of the Division of Clinical Social Medicine at the University Hospital Heidelberg. „Particularly at risk are professional groups from agriculture and forestry, fishing and shipping, construction and crafts, road workers, lifeguards, occupations that are practiced in the mountains and work in southern countries.“
The ESCF advises to check the skin regularly for changes and to consult a dermatologist in case of abnormalities. From the age of 35, statutory health insurance is also entitled to a free skin cancer screening every two years.

With sunscreen, prevent skin cancer
Already from the earliest childhood the skin should be protected from the sun, advises the foundation. „Unfortunately, we still do not think enough about how often we expose ourselves to sunlight every day“, said Professor Eggert Stockfleth, Chairman of the Board of ESCF. „The dose makes the poison. Sun protection must therefore be as natural for people as daily brushing.“ Especially during lunchtime the sun should be shunned and the skin covered with protective clothing. In addition, sunscreen with a high sun protection factor should always be applied before going outdoors. (Ag)

Picture: Rainer Sturm