Does Sun Damaged Skin Have to Lead to Melanoma Skin Cancer?

With all the publicity on skin cancer, a lot of people are wondering if sun damaged skin will automatically lead to melanoma skin cancer. The answer is that while some forms of this disease are linked to sun damage, you can still get melanoma even if you have never been burnt. This is illustrated by the fact that this particular form of cancer can appear on the soles of your feet which do not usually attract much attention from the sun's rays.

There are three forms of skin cancer being basal cell cancer, melanoma and squamous cell cancer. It is this third type that occurs most frequently on skin that has been repeatedly exposed to the sun. The most likely places it will be found are your forehead, arms, backs of your hands and your legs. It is a very curable form of cancer so long as it is treated early and hasn't spread elsewhere.

Melanoma skin cancer is by far the most dangerous form. It spreads much more rapidly than the other two types. The doctors are divided on what exactly causes this problem but the evidence suggests that trying to tan your skin a darker shade either by natural sunlight or tanning booths may increase your risk. The Australians and New Zealanders take a lot more care in the sun with everyone wearing a high factor sun cream, T Shirts and hats. But people will say this is because they are a thinner ozone layer and a more outdoor lifestyle. Perhaps these factors influence the high rates of skin cancer in that part of the world but more and more Americans and Europeans are falling victim to this disease.

So what can you do to reduce your risk? Don't get sun burnt and make sure your children are fully protected too. If you already have moles and freckles, it may be an idea to take a digital picture of them so that you have something to reference back to. This is particularly important if there is a family history of this illness as you may have a genetic predisposition to it.

Any changes in the texture, feel or appearance in your skin needs to be checked by a medical advisor. Don't be embarrassed about what appears to be only a small spot! This is how this type of cancer often begins and the earlier the diagnosis the better the prognosis. You cannot afford to be shy when it comes to your health!

You just cannot take chances with skin cancer. You need proper information and you need it fast. That is where we come in. Our Skin Cancer Site is full of information and advice about this skin condition, information that you need to know. Click on this link now. Skin Cancer Information