image:flickr

Pretty scary statistics for all us fair-skinned people.

But if these skin cancers are spotted early, it can be treated.

Here’s the facts. Skin cancer – melanomas, basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas – usually start out as precancerous lesions, which,  if detected early,  can be treated.

So it’s really important that we are all able to spot the early warning signs.

WebMD’s put together a slideshow that is a pretty good primer to recognizing suspect lesions and moles that should be checked out by the doctor.

Ranging from Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis), small, scaly patches caused by too much sun exposure commonly occur on the head, neck, or hands to Atypical moles, this slideshow really is great.  Not only does it give you a visual guide to suspect moles but it also explains in detail what to look for and why using these ABCDE guidelines:

A is for Asymmetry – normal moles are symmetric. Those that are not should be considered suspect until proven otherwise.

B is for Border -  moles with edges that are ragged, blurred, or irregular need to be checked out.

C is for Color – moles with more than one color also need to be checked out.

D is for Diameter – any mole larger that the size of an eraser at the end of pencil is suspect.

E is for Elevation – raised or elevated moles also need to be checked out.

……

Tomorrow’s post: Common Skin Cancer Myths

Post from: Healthbolt

Image details: Pouring a Cup of Tea served by picapp.com

Need yet another reason to enjoy tea time? How about this…

Researchers at Dartmouth University have found that drinking two or more cups of black or green tea every day can cut your risk of acquiring two of the most common types of skin cancer.

Your risk for squamous cell is reduced by 65% and basal cell carcinoma by 80%! Not bad for a beverage, hey?

So why the super powers? Tea is loaded with protective polyphenols which are said to contain a plethora of antioxidant properties. Bonus: polyphenols may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Bottom line: If you’re not yet a tea drinker, now might be a good time to get brewing. And if you are, good for you. Enjoy all the benefits this healthy beverage has to offer.

Post from: Healthbolt