Understanding Skin Cancer Risk and Prevention: A Guide for Patients with Family History
By Dr. Caroline Vaughn, Village Dermatology
For patients with a family history of non-melanoma skin cancer, understanding skin care and prevention is essential. This article explores the case of a 65-year-old male patient who visited our Katy office with concerns about his risk of skin cancer and several longstanding lesions on his cheek and elbow. Our discussion focused on skin cancer prevention, recognizing potential warning signs, and creating a personalized plan for ongoing skin monitoring.
Case Overview
Our patient came in for an evaluation due to his family history of non-melanoma skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. He was concerned about two asymptomatic lesions that had been present for years and wanted to understand his risk factors. The lesions, one on his right cheek and another on his left elbow, were moderate in severity but had not changed recently. After a thorough examination, we determined these were benign nevi—harmless, symmetrical moles that do not require treatment.
Importance of Sun Protection for Skin Cancer Prevention
Patients with a family history of skin cancer are at a higher risk of developing similar conditions, even if they haven’t experienced skin cancer themselves. Sun exposure remains a significant factor in skin cancer risk, so I recommended that the patient adopt the following protective measures:
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Daily use of SPF 30+ sunscreen, even on cloudy days, helps reduce UV exposure, which is crucial for preventing non-melanoma skin cancers.
Sun-Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses offer additional protection, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Avoiding Tanning: Direct sun exposure and tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer. Staying in the shade or using alternative tanning products, such as self-tanners, is a safer choice.
For more on sun protection and its role in skin cancer prevention, visit our Sun Protection page.
Self-Skin Exams: A Crucial Habit for High-Risk Patients
Given his family history, I advised the patient to perform monthly self-skin checks to detect any changes in existing moles or the appearance of new lesions. Early detection plays a vital role in managing skin cancer risks. During these checks, he should look for:
New Growths: Pay attention to any new spots, especially those that do not heal or seem to grow over time.
Changes in Moles: Watch for changes in size, shape, or color, particularly if a mole becomes asymmetrical or develops uneven borders.
Symptoms: Report any moles or spots that itch, burn, bleed, or become painful, as these can be signs of more concerning growths.
I provided a guide for performing thorough self-exams, advising him to use a mirror for hard-to-see areas and to ask a partner or family member for assistance if needed.
Understanding Benign Nevi and When to Contact Your Dermatologist
During the examination, we observed multiple benign nevi throughout his body. These are regular, symmetrical moles with even pigmentation, which are generally harmless. While benign nevi do not require treatment, it’s essential to monitor them for any signs of transformation over time, particularly in high-risk patients.
Key Points for Benign Nevi:
Monthly Monitoring: Regularly inspect moles for changes, as even benign lesions can change over time.
When to Contact Us: If a mole changes in size, shape, or color, or if it begins to itch, burn, or bleed, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist.
Routine Dermatologist Visits for Lifelong Monitoring
In addition to self-exams, patients with a family history of skin cancer should schedule annual professional skin exams. During these exams, dermatologists can assess any suspicious spots and discuss any changes noted since the previous visit. With our patient, we agreed on a schedule for routine visits to ensure he receives consistent care and monitoring.
Takeaway: Preventive Skin Care for Patients at Risk
This case highlights the importance of preventive care for individuals with a family history of skin cancer. By integrating sun protection, self-skin exams, and regular dermatological check-ups into his routine, the patient can significantly reduce his skin cancer risk and catch potential concerns early.
If you have a family history of non-melanoma skin cancer or are concerned about your skin health, schedule a consultation with our Katy office at Village Dermatology. Our team is here to provide personalized care and educate you on effective skin cancer prevention.