There’s been recent interest in the Forum on exercise and the skin. Lately the media have reported Cancer Research UK statistics - either unfavourably ( “ Skin cancer rates surge since the 1970s “ ) or favourably ( “ 9 in 10 people survive the disease “ ).


Members should be aware, rather than worrying too much .



Most skin cancers are caused by ultraviolet ( UV ) rays, either from sunlight and/or sunbeds. So-called " non-melanoma skin cancers " are by far the commonest. They occur in skin exposed to UV rays, and the risk depends on total lifetime exposure, especially in fair-skinned people. Most are " rodent ulcers " / basal cell carcinomas ; many of the rest are " squamous cell carcinomas ". Unlike other cancers, these usually grow slowly and rarely spread. A persisting skin ulcer or nodule, especially if it bleeds, should be reason to visit a doctor. Proof of the diagnosis would require removal and microscopic examination by a specialist.



There is FAR more information on melanoma, although it is much less common ( in the world, perhaps 130,000 cases / year ; compared to possibly 2 -3 million / year other skin cancers, the numbers not even being known accurately ). Here intermittent intense UV exposure ( " Mediterranean / tropical " sun ) are important - and melanomas don’t necessarily occur on the most exposed skin sites. All types are thought to be increasing in frequency. They vary from country to country, being relatively frequent in the UK and uncommon in the Philippines.



Artificial tanning sunbeds increase the risk of skin cancers, and as the risks are greater for young people, they’re illegal under the age of 18 in the UK.



In the Philippines, there is much more interest in skin - whitening / lightening products. These don’t, so far as I am aware, cause cancer, but they can be harmful. They may contain steroids and/or hydroquinone which can cause irritation, thinning and permanent bleaching ; and ( especially those from China ) mercury which could also cause kidney damage. Take local expert advice from pharmacist or doctor. ( http://www.philstar.com/metro/2013/1...ening-products
; http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/skin/Page...ightening.aspx
).


No general screening programme exists in the UK for skin cancers. An awareness of risks, and noting new skin lesions or changes in old lesions ( increase in size, ulceration, change in colour, bleeding ) are important for early diagnosis and cure - with a minimum of worry ! Enjoy being out in sunny weather … in moderation and with skin protection .


There’s more information in my previous posts / links on this thread, and also the Cancer Research UK website : -

http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/canc...ts/types/skin/