Skin cancer

What is it ?

Skin cancer is a malignant tumour resulting from a disorganized proliferation of abnormal cells in the skin, usually in the epidermis (external skin layer). Certain less common forms of this cancer attack the eyes instead of the skin. Different types of skin cancer exist, each with their own distinct characteristics.

Skin cancer often occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet A and B rays (UVA and UVB) from the sun, without adequate protection (such as a sunblock cream).

Disease transmission

None

Geographic risk zone

Exposure to the sun anywhere in the world can increase the risk of skin cancer. The risk is higher in tropical zones situated near the Equator.

Symptoms description

Skin cancers are recognizable from the formation of spots of pigment on the skin, characterized by their...

Irregular shape
Irregular or indistinct surface area
Uneven colour
Tendency to grow rapidly in size
Absence of pain when touched
Tendency to harden, discolour and change shape

Health impact

Skin cancer is a serious illness and certain forms of it can be fatal.

Risks

Every year, over 60,000 Canadians contract skin cancer, and this number is rapidly increasing.
The type of cancer known as “melanoma” represents 5% of all skin cancers, and is potentially fatal.
In 2000 nearly 3,500 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed in Canada, and since that time these figures have continued to grow.
Between 5% and 10% of skin cancers are due to genetic factors.
Between 50% and 75% of skin cancers start on skin that had never shown signs of spotting before. The balance of skin cancer cases start from existing skin spots that have mutated following intense and frequent exposure to sunlight.

Prevention

As you may realize, no vaccine or treatment can prevent skin cancer. Which means it’s up to everyone individually to adopt safe practices around contact with sunlight. The basic rule is simple: avoid unprotected exposure to the sun, particularly between 11 o’clock in the morning and 4 o’clock in the afternoon.

When you go outdoors, make a habit of wearing a hat with a large brim. Wear sunglasses as well. If you have to spend a long time outdoors, dress in clothes with long sleeves and trouser legs. Look for shaded areas and avoid sunlamps.

In cases where you will be exposed to sunlight, use a sunblock with a solar protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 that’s specially designed to block UVA and UVB rays. Fifteen or 30 minutes before you go outdoors, apply a generous layer of the product on skin surfaces that will be exposed to sunlight. Apply a new layer of sunblock regularly, particularly if you’ve been doing an activity that might have diluted the product. For example, after swimming, or if you’ve been sweating freely or have simply wiped your face or arms with a napkin or handkerchief.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that all travellers consult a travel health specialist before they go abroad. Your specialist will be able to advise you about various resources and options available so that you can protect yourself effectively.

Vaccination : skin cancer

Recommended products

Sunblock

Travel Boutique

Nota Bene

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Canada.
Scientific studies make it clear that ultraviolet B rays (UVB) play a major role in causing skin cancer.
Skin cancers are observed to appear more often in people with light skin, hair or eyes, as well as in subjects with freckles.
People who have frequently experienced serious sunburn when young are at greater risk of developing skin cancer during their lives.
UVB rays, which are responsible for many skin cancers, are more intense between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. During this time of day it is particularly important to exercise extra caution in the sun.
Babies’ and small children’s skin is more sensitive to sunlight than adult skin is. Make sure to be extra careful with them.