Hugh Jackman recently revealed he had two biopsies to check for skin cancer, having already had one a few years ago.
In an Instagram video, the Wolverine actor shared that he first had cancer cells removed from his face in 2013 and has had about six surgeries since. As a result, the comedian urged his fans to always wear sunscreen and be careful when spending time outdoors.
To mark Sun Protection Week (May 1-8 in Britain), Dr Paul Banwell has shared some tips for spotting the first signs of skin cancer.
“Non-melanoma skin cancer refers to a group of cancers that grow slowly in the upper layers of the skin. These are the most common types of skin cancer. The main types of non-melanoma skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas,” he explained.
Basal cell carcinomas present in different ways, but any area that does not heal after a few months, especially if it is thick or bleeding, should be examined.
“Often they look like little pearly nodules with a crust. Common symptoms of skin cancer are a sore or patch of skin that does not heal within four weeks, looks unusual or hurts, itches, bleeds, crusts for more than four weeks “, continues the expert.
In addition, the most common sign of melanoma is the appearance of a new mole or the modification of an existing mole.
“Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs. For melanoma, any pigmented mole that changes color, size, contour, or bleeds, grows larger, or becomes crusty should be investigated, especially if there are multiple pre-existing moles, family history of prostate cancer, skin, history of sunburn and tanning in UV salons. Outdoor sports such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing, golf and tennis are also risk factors.
Also, Dr. Banwell recommends remembering the “ABCDEs of Melanoma.” It is :
Asymmetrical: Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two very different parts?
Border: Is the border jagged or jagged?
Color: Is the color uneven?
Diameter: Is the mole or spot larger than a pea?
Evolution: Has the mole or spot changed over the past few weeks or months?