Los Angeles: Men are less likely to develop skin cancer than women but they are more likely to die from the disease due to lack of awareness, says Iain Mack of The MOLE Clinic.
The facts about skin cancer has been revealed following Hugh Jackman’s scare. Recently, the Hollywood star revealed his skin cancer problem and how early detection made his life easier.
Mack is the founder of The MOLE Clinic, an independent skin cancer screening and diagnostic centre, and a skin cancer survivor.
“Men are less likely to develop skin cancer than women; however they are more likely to die from it due to lack of awareness. The number of British men who die each year of skin cancer melanoma has exceeded 1,000,” quoted Mack as saying.
“Around 2,000 people die of melanoma a year and over 1,000 are men. The latest melanoma survival rates show that 78 percent of men and 91 percent of women are alive five years after diagnosis,” Mack added.
Mack says that skin cancer usually appears as a new or changing mole or freckle.
“Skin cancer has no cure, so it is important for the public to become more aware of their moles and spot any that might be suspect. If a mole is new or changing it needs to be examined by an expert right away,” he said.
Over half of people with moles, which are cancerous or at risk of skin cancer, have a history of sunburn or sunbed use, according to figures released by The MOLE Clinic.
In the past 12 months, the London-based independent skin cancer screening clinic screened more than 10,000 moles. This is a record figure in the company’s 10 years of skin cancer screening.
What are the preventive measures to avoid skin cancer?
Virginia Hubbard, consultant dermatologist at London Bridge Hospital, recommends that people examine their skin every month.
“People with fair skin, who burn easily, and people with lots of moles should take particular care as these people are more likely to develop a skin cancer.
“Check your skin regularly. If in any doubt about any changes in a mole, seek expert help. Avoid sunburn of your skin. Use a sunscreen of at least SPF30, with UVA protection too. Use twice as much sunscreen as you think you need. Make sure you reapply every hour or so, especially if sweating or after swimming,” said Hubbard.
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