Doctors start the skin cancer screening campaign

Doctors launch skin cancer screening campaign

05/24/2014

In recent years, skin cancers have increased significantly in Germany. However, only a few Germans still go for skin cancer screening, although the disease is well curable if it is detected early. Doctors are now launching a campaign to promote the screening test.

Only every third German goes to the check-up
Since many Germans do not go for skin cancer screening, doctors now want to campaign with a campaign for the check. According to AFP, Regina Feldmann, board member of the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV) said on Friday in Berlin that the offer would still be underused, even though skin cancer is easily curable if it is detected early. Only just over every third German over the age of 35 uses skin cancer screening. Therefore, the doctors now want to draw attention to this investigation with posters and flyers in the waiting rooms. According to the KBV, the flyers explain how the examinations work and how patients can prepare for them.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Germany. According to the German Cancer Society, up to 200,000 people develop new skin cancers every year. From an even higher number, namely 234,000 new cases, the German cancer aid goes out. More than 20,000 diagnoses alone concern the dangerous one „black“ Skin cancer. A skin cancer check can help to detect malignant lesions early. Statutory health insured persons over the age of 35 have a claim to the check-up every two years with a dermatologist or a qualified family doctor. The check is also offered by numerous health insurance companies more often than every two years and sometimes for younger insured.

Reduce risk of skin cancer
Experts recommend different codes of conduct to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Since UV radiation is considered to be a major cause of skin cancer, it is advised not to expose yourself to strong sunlight, such as during lunchtime, wear appropriate clothing, headgear and sunglasses, use sunscreen, adjust sun exposure to skin type and Avoid sunburn. In addition, stays outside should be kept short in bright sunshine or outdoors activities should be laid out in the morning or evening. It is also advisable to seek shade more often and to gradually get used to the sun in general. Particular attention should be paid to the protection of children. Infants should not be exposed directly to the sun. (Ad)