May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month and an important opportunity to highlight the need to protect our skin and recognise early signs of trouble, particularly as the sun begins to shine more.
At Purity Bridge the team of consultant plastic surgeons, dermatologists and specialist skin cancer nurses have a wealth of experience in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer. Whilst we’re always here to help with any concerns we’d also encourage everyone to learn how to check their own skin and reduce their skin cancer risks.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are three main types:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form, often appearing as a pearly or waxy bump.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): More likely to spread than BCC, it may appear as a scaly red patch or a sore that doesn’t heal.
Melanoma: The most dangerous form, developing in the pigment-producing melanocytes. It often looks like a new or changing mole and can spread quickly if untreated.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your risk of skin cancer:
Excessive UV exposure from sunlight or tanning beds.
Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes.
History of sunburns, especially blistering ones.
Family or personal history of skin cancer.
Numerous moles or atypical moles.
Prevention Tips
Prevention starts with smart habits and looking after ourselves throughout the year:
Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Avoid tanning beds completely.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection is critical. Check your skin monthly and ask a loved one or friend to help with the parts you can’t easily see (your back, backs of legs, scalp etc). Put your skin checks in your diary and set aside 10-15mins so you can do a careful job from top to bottom! If you have any concerns about a lump or mole it’s always best to seek advice from a doctor, but if you’re not sure then keep a photo on your phone and compare it next month – if things are changing then get it checked out! Regardless of any worries you can see a dermatologist or plastic surgeon yearly for a professional skin exam.
To help monitor your moles, use the ABCDE rule:
Asymmetry – is one half of the mole different from the other?
Border irregularity – is the edge bumpy, jagged or blurry?
Colour variation – Is there more than one shade or colour in the mole?
Diameter over 6mm?
Evolving or changing in size, shape, or colour over time?
Take Action This Awareness Week
Skin Cancer Awareness Week is an ideal time to educate yourself and others. Share knowledge, schedule a skin check, and encourage loved ones to protect their skin. Simple steps can make a lasting difference.
By staying informed and proactive, we can reduce the risk and impact of skin cancer. Your skin is your body’s largest organ — love it and treat it with care!
By Mr Benjamin Way
