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Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world affecting 70 per cent men than women in India. The causes range from genetic factors to exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Padma Shri Awardee, Dr KK Aggarwal, President, HCFI, said: “One of the deadliest forms of skin cancer is melanoma. Some common symptoms are skin changes; skin sore that fails to heal; a spot or sore that becomes painful, itchy, or tender, or which bleeds; a spot or lump that looks shiny, waxy, smooth, or pale; a firm red lump that bleeds or appears ulcerated or crusty; and a flat, red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly”.

Some tips of prevention are:

• Avoid the sun during the middle of the day. Schedule outdoor activities for other times of the day, even in winter or when the sky is cloudy. Clouds offer little protection from damaging rays. Avoiding the sun at its strongest helps you avoid the sunburns and suntans that cause skin damage and increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
• Wear sunscreen year-round. Sunscreens don’t filter out all harmful UV radiation, especially the radiation that can lead to melanoma, but they do give overall sun protection. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
• Cover your skin with dark, tightly woven clothing that covers your arms and legs and a broad-brimmed hat.
• Opt for sunglasses that block UVA and UV rays.
• Avoid tanning beds. It emits UV rays and can increase your risk of skin cancer.
• Become familiar with your skin so you’ll notice changes. Examine your skin regularly for new skin growths or changes in existing moles, freckles, bumps and birthmarks.