Breast cancer is in the news these days, and women with the disease should be aware that they have an increased risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. In the US in 2010, there will be an estimated 29,260 new melanoma cases in women. Genetics may play a role, since women with abnormalities in the BRCA2 gene for breast cancer susceptibility have more than two times the chance of developing melanoma than those without mutations in the gene. Breast cancer patients and survivors are advised to: Beware of photosensitivity.
Be screened.
Perform self exams. Performed regularly (monthly is ideal), self-examination can aid in the early detection of skin cancer. Because skin cancers can vary in appearance, it is important to be on the lookout for early warning signs. Melanomas, for instance, often resemble moles. Look especially for skin changes of any kind, and do not ignore a suspicious spot simply because it does not hurt. Skin cancers may be painless but dangerous all the same. See a physician, preferably one who specializes in diseases of the skin, if you notice any of the warning signs.
Know the signs. Be careful to take note of the following, when you perform a self exam. Click here to learn how to properly perform a self exam.
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Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Breast Cancer Patients Are at Higher Risk for Melanoma
(An article from the Skin Cancer Foundation www.skincancer.org)
Labels:
BRCA2,
breast cancer,
disease,
gene,
melanoma,
mutations,
photosensitivity,
self exams,
skin cancer,
skin checks,
SPF,
UVA
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