Because South Africa has one of the highest UV (ultraviolet) levels in the world, we also have one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world.
People with fair skin, especially those with red hair, moles or skin spots as well as people with a family history of skin cancer and spend a lot of time outside are considered at a high risk of developing skin cancer. One of the myths that exist is that people with darker skins are not at risk of getting skin cancer. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can affect all racial groups, although it is more common in those people with fair skins. People with darker skins are less susceptible because their skin contains more natural melanin that helps to protect against sun damage.
Skin cancer is generally divided into two categories: Melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is by far the most dangerous form of skin cancer and can be deadly. SA has one of the highest incidences of melanoma worldwide, with approximately 1 500 people diagnosed annually.
Basal cell skin cancer is most common in people over the age of 40 but it can occur in younger people too. If left untreated, these types of skin cancers can lead to disfigurement, or the loss of an eye, nose or ear, which makes early detection so important.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer and is curable in 95% of cases if detected early. This form of skin cancer begins in the squamous cells, which are found in the upper layer of the skin.
Another risk of exposure to the sun over many years is the development of Actinic Keratoses (AK), also known as Solar Keratoses, which are areas of sun damaged skin found mostly on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the forearms, backs of hands, face, ears, bald scalp and the lower legs. While these skin lesions are generally harmless, if left untreated they can progress and develop into Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
At least 80% of sun-induced skin damage occurs before the age of 18 and only manifests later in life. It is therefore of vital importance to take special care of children in the sun.
Some tips to help protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays include avoiding direct sunlight between 10:00 to 15:00 and wearing thickly-woven hats with wide brims and loose-fitting clothes, made of tightly-woven, fabric that is cool while blocking the harmful UV rays. Applying sunscreen with an SPF of between 30 and 50 and reapplying it often. Avoiding the use of sunlamps and tanning beds is also strongly recommended.
Most skin cancers can be cured it found early. See a dermatologist or general practitioner if you have any suspicious lesions or moles and do this sooner rather than later.
