basal cell
FDA Considers Stricter Tanning Bed Regulations
Everyone has heard by now that tanning is bad. The harm from the UV rays in tanning beds can be cancer causing, even in moderation. That is why the FDA is publicly considering stricter regulations on indoor tanning salons.
As we have discussed in previous blogs, the World Health Organization has officially deemed tanning beds as a “definite” cause of cancer – upgrading them from their previous classification as a “probable” cause of cancer.
This has prompted the FDA to consider a requirement for more visible warning labels on tanning beds, to make user better aware of the risk they are taking. The FDA is also considering following suit with the World Health Organization and putting tanning beds into a more sever classification to establish them as a carcinogen.
Proponents of the tanning bed industry already have enough on their plate – actively lobbying against legislation to put taxes on tanning salons to help pay for the healthcare reform bill. Spokespeople for the tanning industry claim that it is only harmful for people who “overdo it.”
But as any qualified dermatologist would tell you, prolonged exposure to UV rays (like the tanning bed) causes cancer, no matter how “careful” you are about it. Last year alone, there were 69,000 cases of melanoma, the most severe type of skin cancer, and resulted in 8,650 deaths.
We at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta urge you to be proactive about your skin protection. Make sure you are practicing safe sun habits and come in regularly for mole checks by a board certified dermatologist. We guarantee it will help you in the long run!
A Visual Guide to Accompany Skin Cancer Awareness
Disclaimer: Skin Cancer is a very serious condition and should ultimately be diagnosed and confirmed by a Dermatologist!
Last week we discussed a few tell-tale signs for identifying the three most common types of cancer. We’ve decided this week to give you a more visual clue as to what you should look for. From the image above, the left image represents Basal Cell Carcinoma, the center image shows Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and the right-most image shows Melanoma. These images are just clues – everybody will exhibit unique signs and your skin may not have these exact features. However, they are a good way to tip yourself off to something that’s more than a mole, scab, or wart. Should you find any blemishes resembling these on your body, we strongly recommend coming in to see us for a diagnosis. Even if you feel you are not at risk, we also recommend everyone at least get an annual full body skin screening.
The Basics of Skin Cancer Awareness
Millions are diagnosed with skin cancer each year and the median age is getting lower: people as young as 18 are getting diagnosed with skin cancer.
Three types of very common skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. All of these are easily treatable, although if Melanoma is not detected early enough, it could lead to serious complications.
A few telltale signs of the common skin cancers should be considered before you come in for a diagnosis, since a painful skin biopsy is the only way to guarantee a diagnosis. For Basal Cell Carcinoma, be on the lookout for raised, smooth, pearly bumps around the head, neck, or shoulder areas. It often resembles a sore, but fails to heal. For Squamous Cell Carcinoma, look for red, scaling, thickening patches of skin in sun-exposed areas. Melanoma appears as dark, either brown or black, lesions. Be observant of any moles changing size, shape, elevation, or color.
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