Tips to Prevent Melanoma
Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer in the country. It has affected more persons than all other types of cancer combined. The main cause of this disease is the ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Even though it is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, it is curable if detected early. Follow these effective prevention tips for melanoma to stay safe and healthy.
Try to avoid the sun
Avoid going out in the sun between 10 AM to 4 PM as during this time, the sun is at its peak, and the ultraviolet rays can affect your skin.
Avoid getting sunburn.
You should try to avoid getting sunburn as it increases your chances of being affected by malignant melanoma. This is one of the prevention tips for melanoma, especially when enjoying a day at the beach.
Cover up
There are numerous ways you can protect yourself from the sun, and block the harmful ultraviolet rays one of the best ways is using hats and sunglasses. Follow these prevention tips for melanoma if you need to go out in the sun during the day.
Use sunscreen
Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher every day whenever you step out of your home. This will help protect you against skin cancer. If you are splashing in the pool or sweating, you need to re-apply the sunscreen.
Visit your dermatologist regularly
Go for regular skin checkups, especially when you spot a suspicious mole or a skin tag.
Eat anti-oxidant rich foods
Antioxidants are not produced in the body. Hence, you need to consume a generous amount of fruits and vegetables to increase your antioxidant levels. Consume more carrots, squash, tomatoes, yams cantaloupe, tomatoes, watermelon, guava, papaya, apricots, pink grapefruits, blood oranges, among other food items.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E helps to prevent damage caused by free radicals and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help to absorb energy from UV light. Eating more vitamin-E rich foods can improve the protective layer of the skin. Vitamin E-rich foods include almonds, sunflower seeds spinach, and wheat germ.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has the power to reduce the spread of cancer cells.
Zinc
This is a vital mineral that can help boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer and other skin diseases. Including zinc-rich foods in your diet such as oats, nuts, and seeds is one of the best prevention tips for melanoma.
By consuming all these vitamins, minerals, and following a few prevention tips for melanoma, you can avoid one of the most common and lethal cancers.