May is skin cancer awareness month and as Phoenix doctors we’ve heard every question about skin cancer in Arizona that you can think of. Learn the facts, causes, and risk factors for skin cancer to help understand and prevent it.
Skin Cancer in Arizona Facts
- In the United States, skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer.
- Over 2 million people are diagnosed with a form of skin cancer every single year.
- There are more new cases of skin cancer every year than breast, prostate, lung, and colon combined.
- 1 in 5 people in this country will develop a form of skin cancer in their lifetime.
- The most common form of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma.
- Over 3,000 people die from a form of non-melanoma skin cancer each year.
- Melanoma skin cancer is least common form of skin cancer in Arizona, but it accounts for the majority of deaths from skin cancer.
Causes of Skin Cancer in Arizona
Because of the sunny climate and warmer weather, skin cancer in Arizona is more common than many other parts of the country. Skin cancer is not completely attributed the sun’s rays, but Phoenix doctors believe that the majority of skin cancer in Arizona is directly linked to ultraviolent radiation exposure. When skin cancer in Arizona is not related to overexposure to UV rays, other factors like toxic exposure are likely to blame.
Who is at the Greatest Risk for Skin Cancer in Arizona
People with increased risk of skin cancer in Arizona have any of the following risk factors:
- Lighter skinned people with less pigmentation to protect against UV damage.
- People who have had one or more sunburns during childhood or adulthood.
- Those exposed to the sun for prolonged or continuous periods of time.
- Living in a sunny or high altitude climate increases exposure – that’s why many residents are at a higher risk for skin cancer in Arizona.
- Moles indicate a higher risk of skin cancer in Arizona.
- Family history of skin cancer, just like with any other form of cancer, can indicate that you have an increased risk of getting skin cancer in your lifetime.
- Those who have already had skin cancer are at risk of recurrence, even if cancerous cells have been removed.
- Those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of getting types of skin cancers.
- People who have been exposed to radiation or toxic substances have an elevated skin cancer risk.
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Family Practice Specialists
At Family Practice Specialists, our Phoenix doctors and dermatologists will sit down with you to discuss your skin cancer risk factors, family history, and any possible diagnosis and/or treatments. Give us a call today!
4350 E. Camelback Rd.
Ste F100
Phoenix, AZ 85018
602.955.8700