Protecting your skin: Insights and innovations during Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin Cancer Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilance in detecting and preventing skin cancer, the most common cancer affecting both men and women in the United States.

Matthew Spraker, MD, a radiation oncologist with AdventHealth, shares valuable insights about skin cancer, its treatment options, and preventive measures.

To limit your risk of skin cancer, Dr. Spraker suggests the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, along with sun-blocking clothing such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.

Avoiding UV exposure during peak hours (10 am - 4 pm) and steering clear of tanning beds, particularly for younger individuals, can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

He stresses the importance of regular skin checks to identify concerning changes, such as new growths, evolving moles, or sores that don’t heal. Using the acronym “ABCDE” to assess moles—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 5 mm, and Evolving appearance—can be helpful in spotting potential melanomas early.

Dr. Spraker points out that Colorado has higher-than-average rates of skin cancer due to its unique geographical and lifestyle factors.

UV light is stronger at higher altitudes, such as Denver, where it is estimated to be 20–30% more intense than at sea level. Combined with Colorado’s 300 sunny days per year and residents’ love for outdoor activities, these elements contribute to increased UV exposure, even during snowy winters when UV rays can reflect off the snow.

If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, it is often highly treatable, especially when caught early. According to Dr. Spraker, “If patients are vigilant, they have a high chance of cure.”

Radiation therapy is one method used for treating skin cancer, and it has been shown to be effective. While surgery is well-known and widely used, radiation therapy can serve as an alternative to surgery or complement it in higher-risk cases.

“Radiation can help all patients with skin cancer in different ways,” said Dr. Spraker. “Many patients with higher-risk cases may benefit from radiation after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence. For others, radiation therapy can be a standalone treatment and is highly effective at curing skin cancer.”

For patients hesitant about surgery or those seeking alternatives, radiation therapy offers a less invasive option without incisions or anesthesia.

“My clinical experience is in line with studies that show radiation therapy is very successful in treating skin cancer on its own or in combination with surgery and/or systemic therapy,” said Dr. Spraker. “While studies never compared radiation therapy to surgery directly, radiotherapy offers cure rates similar to surgery.”

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a time to educate, reflect, and take proactive steps. Dr. Spraker encourages patients to explore all available options for treating skin cancer, consulting both dermatologists and radiation oncologists to tailor the best approach for their needs. Through prevention, vigilance, and informed choices, the fight against skin cancer can be met with optimism and success.

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Matthew Spraker, MD, believes it is his privilege to help heal people with cancer. Dr. Spraker enjoys the science of oncology and is building upon his knowledge by completing an integrative medicine fellowship. He treats patients with cancer, osteoarthritis, and plantar fasciitis. Dr. Spraker performs stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), radiosurgery, and brachytherapy.

Dr. Spraker earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. He completed his residency at the University of Washington School of Medicine.

Click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Spraker.