Protecting His Skin
Men rarely worry about skin care and protection. But skin cancer is increasing at a faster rate than any other form of cancer, with the highest increase in men over age 55.
“When I ask a man what brought him to our office, the common answer is, ‘My wife,’” says Patrick Feehan, MD, of Dermatology Associates of Lancaster.
But with summer approaching and men spending more time outdoors mowing the lawn, golfing, fishing, playing softball or going to the beach, skin protection should be on their mind.
Wearing a total block sunscreen (at least 30 SPF) is important to protect the skin from the sun’s rays, and should be re-applied every few hours. Dr. Feehan also suggests that men wear a hat and appropriate clothing when outside, and seek shade when possible.
“You don’t have to hide from the sun,” he says. “Just use common sense.”
Skin cancer caught at an early stage is treatable, and the earlier it’s caught, the less invasive the treatment. Melanoma, the most deadly form, accounts for about 5% of all cases of skin cancer, but for about 80% of the deaths.
“We can cure melanoma if we catch it early,” Dr. Feehan says. “Fortunately, we’re talking about skin, the largest, most visible organ of the body. So it’s right there for you to see.”
Unusual spots and skin changes, such as persistent red patches and areas that itch or bleed, can signal a problem.
“Sometimes the signs are subtle,” Dr. Feehan says. That’s why skin cancer screenings are an invaluable way to catch a problem early, when treatment is minimally invasive.
People at higher risk should schedule annual visits with a dermatologist. This includes people who have:
- more than 100 moles on their body
- an atypical mole identified by a doctor
- a family history of skin cancer
- frequent sunburns, and
- anyone over age 55.
“The biggest problem we face is men not getting to us early enough for treatment,” Dr. Feehan says. “If we can get them to pay more attention to their skin—with the help of their wives and families—we can win this battle.”
Click on these links for more related information: