An article from the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Source: www.skincancer.org

People who have had the nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) basal and squamous cell carcinoma (BCC and SCC) are approximately twice as likely as other people to develop non-skin cancers, according to a study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

The findings are of particular concern because NMSC is the world's most common malignancy, with over a million cases diagnosed every year in the US alone. Currently, it's estimated that one in five Americans will develop NMSC at some point in their lives. About 90 percent of these cancers are associated with exposure to the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While NMSCs have very high cure rates when caught early, they should not be taken lightly, as this study shows.

Researchers led by Anthony J. Alberg, PhD, of the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, studied demographic and health information from 19,174 patients in the Maryland-based CLUE (Give us a Clue to Cancer and Heart Disease) II study, from 1989 though 2005. Some 769 patients in the study were diagnosed with NMSC, and by the end of 2005, 181 of these patients, or about 23 percent, had developed another form of (non-skin-related, or noncutaneous) cancer. In contrast, only about 12 percent of people (2156 of 18,405) who did not have NMSC were subsequently diagnosed with a noncutaneous cancer. Researchers took variables such as cigarette smoking and skin type (susceptibility to sunburn and blistering) into account. Nonetheless, those with NMSC had about twice the risk of developing noncutaneous cancers as those who did not have NMSC. Researchers also found that the earlier the age at diagnosis of NMSC, the more likely participants were to develop noncutaneous cancers.

The full implications of this research are not yet known, but while nonmelanoma skin cancers are rarely life-threatening, they can be highly disfiguring if not caught early, and it is well known that having a history of NMSC means you are also at increased risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, which claims more than 8200 lives a year in the US. If you have had an NMSC, you are at higher risk of developing not only future NMSCs and melanomas, but also other, potentially dangerous cancers. Routine screening for both skin cancers and non-skin cancers is thus advisable.

Did you know that many of the common signs of aging can be avoided? Over time, our skin losses it elasticity and wrinkles, fine lines and age spots can appear making us show our age. Some of these are unavoidable, but many of the signs of aging are directly related to sun exposure and, if you properly protect your skin from the sun, can be reduced. The process of aging due to sun exposure is known as photoaging.

The skin is composed of three different layers: the epidermis, or outermost layer, the dermis, or middle layer, and the subcutis, or bottom layer. The middle layer contains collagen, elastin, and other fibers that support the skin’s structure. It is these elements that give skin its smooth and youthful appearance- and that are damaged by UV radiation (UVR).  Chronic and repeated sun exposure can cause damage to the skin such as age spots that are small bit of pigmentation that doesn’t go away. They typically appear on the hands, arms, face and back.  The best way to prevent signs of photoaging is to be diligent in protecting your skin from the sun. This means wearing sunscreen 365 days a year and covering up to avoid the potential for sun burn. 

The following are 7 suggestions to help reduce the annoying and uncomfortable itch of eczema.

1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Keeping your skin hydrated can be the key to reducing the itch caused by eczema. Applying a moisturizer helps lock in your skin’s own moisture. To get the most out of your moisturizer, apply it right after you get out of the shower or bath, pat dry leaving skin slightly damp and then apply the moisturizer. This will help lock in as much moisture as possible.

2. Use a cream or ointment instead of lotion to moisturize.           

You may not realize that there is a distinct difference between lotions and creams. Lotions come in pump bottles and creams come in a tube that you squeeze or a tub that your dip out. Lotions are thinner in nature and are not as effective in trapping moisture as the thicker creams. Ointments can also be effective. Using petroleum jelly can be very moisturizing.

3. Take an oatmeal bath.

A quick soak in a lukewarm oatmeal bath can help ease itching. You can purchase a pre-packaged oatmeal bath mix at your local drug store. Simply follow the directions on the label and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then gently pat dry and apply moisturizer right away.

4. Use a cold compress.

Place an ice pack inside a towel and hold it on to the itchy skin for a few minutes or as needed to help relieve itch.

5. Wear comfortable fabrics.

Choose loose-fitting fabrics and comfortable fabrics such as organic cotton or cotton blends. Avoid coarse materials like wool and synthetic fabrics because they can be irritating to skin.

6. Keep fingernails cut short.

Having long fingernails can make it hard to resist the itching. Keeping your fingernails cut short will reduce the desire to itch and also do less damage if you do itch. If you find yourself itching at night, try wearing cotton gloves to bed.

7. Use over-the-counter medications.

Topical anti-inflammatory creams, such as hydrocortisone, can help reduce itch. Oral antihistamines, such as Claritin or Benadryl, can also be affective. If, however, your symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to see your dermatologist who can prescribe stronger treatments.

If you find that your eczema is not manageable, give our office a call. There are effective treatment options. Call us today at 574-522-0265 to schedule your appointment.

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is intense inflammation of the skin that can lead skin to become dry, itchy red and irritated. It can be found anywhere on the body, but it most frequently appears on the hands, neck, back of the knees and inside of the elbows. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be somewhat due to genetics or an imbalance in the immune system which causes release of inflammatory chemicals. It can affect anyone one at any age, but most commonly appears in childhood. It is possible to have eczema only once, but the majority of cases are chronic and characterized by intermittent flare ups throughout a person’s life.

Often, flare ups are caused by certain factors that trigger a reaction in the skin. The best form of prevention is to identify and remove triggers such as wind or allergy-producing fabrics. While there is no cure for eczema, the symptoms are treatable. For mild cases, over-the-counter topical creams and antihistamines can relieve itching. If symptoms do not improve, see your dermatologist to be evaluated and placed on the best course of treatment. Your dermatologist may prescribe steroid creams, oral steroids, antibiotic pills or antifungal creams. One important thing to remember is to not scratch your skin. Scratching thickens the skin and can lead to scarring. If the skin is broken, it can become susceptible to bacterial or viral infections. If you suspect infection or your skin is cracked and oozing, see your dermatologist as soon as possible.  

If you or someone you know suffers from eczema, call our office today at 574-522-0265 to schedule an appointment!

If you’re considering having a cosmetic procedure done to enhance your natural beauty and reduce the signs of aging, your first reaction may be to contact a plastic surgeon’s office or perhaps go to your local spa. While these places can provide excellent treatment, there is no better option than having a board-certified dermatologist perform your cosmetic procedure. Here at DermacenterMD, Dr. Roger Moore, a skin care expert, will personally evaluate your needs and perform your procedure.

There is no other medical profession that is more highly trained in the skin than dermatology. A dermatologist has dedicated their life to the study and care of the skin, hair and nails. When you come in for a consultation with Dr. Moore, you will not only be able to express your desire for a specific cosmetic procedure, but also you can express any other skin, cosmetic or aging concerns you may have. Dr. Moore can lead you in the right direction to get your skin looking youthful, fresh and beautiful.

You can change your image and the way people perceive you thought the innovative cosmetic procedures offered here at DermacenterMD. Dr. Moore offers treatments such as Botox and Dysport, fillers, laser facial rejuvenation, photo rejuvenation, laser hair reduction, microdermabrasion, ProFractional laser therapy, laser vein therapy and more. Many of Dr. Moore’s patients travel from all over the Michiana area, including South Bend, Goshen, Mishawaka and Michigan to receive the professional and expert care they know they will receive at DermacenterMD. So, if you’re considering cosmetic procedures to improve your appearance there is no better option than choosing a board-certified skin expert like Dr. Roger Moore.

We welcome you to give our office a call at 574-522-0265 to schedule your consultation today.