Tanning is probably the #1 most common cause of patients developing skin cancer. At Sanova Dermatology, we are seeing skin cancer arising in younger and younger patients because of the trend to tan during teenage years. Skin cancer used to be most common in older individuals because of the cumulative sun damage they endure over a lifetime. Now, high school-aged girls tanning 3-4 times a week is leading to more and more melanoma in women in their early 20s, as well as non-melanoma skin cancers developing in patients before they turn 30. Is this preventable? Yes, you don’t have to tan!
Austin is known as a city that lends itself well to an outdoor lifestyle, but we need to remember that the rates of skin cancer in Texas are some of the highest in the United States. In addition to avoiding tanning beds, protecting yourself from the sun and wearing sunscreen should become part of your daily routine.
If you feel you might be at risk for skin cancer and want to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us today. We are always happy to answer your questions, and we can help you schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists.