Cancer

Skin Cancer — Warning Signs and Prevention

2025-09-18

Intro

Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, but prevention and vigilance are critical. Knowing what to look for — and how to protect yourself — can save lives.

Key Points

• Most skin cancers are linked to UV exposure.
• Warning signs include new, changing, or non-healing spots.
• The ABCDE rule helps identify suspicious moles.
• Prevention relies on sunscreen, protective clothing, and skin checks.
• Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) may offer additional protection for high-risk people.

Warning Signs

• New or changing mole — especially if irregular in shape or color.
• Sores that don’t heal — persistent ulcers or bleeding spots.
• Scaly or rough patches — may indicate SCC.
• Shiny or pearly bumps — typical of BCC.
• ABCDE rule for melanoma:
  • Asymmetry
  • Border irregularity
  • Color variation
  • Diameter >6mm
  • Evolving over time

Prevention

• Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30+ daily, reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
• Clothing: Hats, long sleeves, sunglasses.
• Avoid tanning beds: Artificial UV is just as harmful as sunlight.
• Shade: Especially between 10am–4pm when UV is strongest.
• Self-checks: Monthly skin checks and yearly dermatology exams if high-risk.

Nicotinamide and Prevention

Recent large-scale research suggests nicotinamide (vitamin B3) may reduce skin cancer risk, especially for squamous cell carcinoma. It may be considered for people with a history of skin cancer, but it’s not a replacement for sun protection.

FAQ

Q: What are the first signs of skin cancer?
A: New or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, scaly patches, or shiny bumps.

Q: What is the ABCDE rule for melanoma?
A: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving over time.

Q: How can I lower my risk of skin cancer?
A: Daily sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding tanning beds, and skin checks.

Q: Does vitamin B3 help prevent skin cancer?
A: Research suggests nicotinamide may reduce risk, but it’s not a substitute for sun protection.

Further Reading

• Skin Cancer Hub
• American Cancer Society — Skin Cancer Prevention
• JAMA Dermatology — Nicotinamide Chemoprevention Study

Related Guides

• Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Staging
• Skin Cancer Treatment Options
• Sun Safety & UV Protection

• #skin cancer
• #melanoma
• #basal cell carcinoma
• #squamous cell carcinoma
• #prevention