It is one of the types of cancer whose risk of developing it is easiest to lower, independently and without much effort. Even so, most of us don’t. According to the National Health Test of Poles 2022 (NTZP 2022), Poles are stubbornly “working” on melanoma. The two deadly sins are not using sunscreen and disregarding the dermatologist’s examination of pigmented nevi.
- Only every fifth Pole uses a cream with a UV filter whenever it is exposed to sunlight
- The same number never reaches for such products
- The diagnosis of skin cancer is also limp. Dermatologists are regularly (at least once a year) visited by 7 percent. people who have pigmented moles (moles)
- More information can be found on the Onet homepage
«Cream with a UV filter? No thanks”
Poles do not have the habit of lubricating the body with a cream with a UV filter. Although the awareness of the importance of this practice grows year by year, we still have a lot to do in this matter.
According to NTZP 2022, only one in five Poles (21%) uses sunscreen products whenever they are exposed to sunlight. For comparison, last year this ratio was 20 percent, and in 2020 – 19 percent. Almost the same number of people do not use them at all (23% compared to 22% in 2021 and 24% in 2020). 37 percent of respondents use sun protection only in the event of strong sunlight (a year ago such an answer was given by 39% of people, two years ago – 40%).
Let us remind you that reaching for products with a UV filter is very important when you plan to expose your skin to solar radiation for a longer time. Properly used, they protect not only against sunburn, but also prevent premature skin aging and the development of skin cancer.
You can find the cream with a high UV filter at the Medonet Market for adults and children.
«Dermatoscopy? What’s this?”
There is also a lack of awareness in the area of skin cancer diagnostics. It is mainly about people with numerous or few, but atypical pigmented moles (especially moles).
The rest of the text below the video.
Only 7 percent. (a decrease by 1 pp. compared to 2021 and 2020) Poles undergo regular (at least once a year) dermatoscopy, i.e. skin moles examination by a dermatologist. As much as 38 percent. of the respondents, despite having such signs, never examined them by a specialist.
Pigmented moles should be checked by a dermatologist once a year or – if we have a lot of moles – even once every six months. Dermatoscopy allows you to quickly identify disturbing changes that may lead to skin cancer, e.g. dangerous melanoma.
You can buy a test package that includes dermatoscopy and consultation with a dermatologist at Medonet Market.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is one of the most frequently diagnosed and most dangerous skin cancers. In Poland, it affects 3 people every year. people, of which a growing group are young women (aged 25 to 40). The peak incidence is between the ages of 60 and 70. The cancer most often affects the skin, but it can also occur in the mucosa of the mouth and nose, as well as on the nails and eyeball.
Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the cancer. In the early stages, there is an unusual, flat, irregularly shaped pigmented lesion (usually in the area where there was no mole). Its edges may be uneven, jagged, and the color may be very different (from light brown to black). Melanoma can also develop on one of the most common pigmented nevi. In such a situation, the mole changes its shape, borders and color, sometimes it gives off blood, and the place hurts or itches.
The prognosis for melanoma depends largely on the stage of advancement at the time of detection of the malignant lesion. If the cancer can be located quickly, the cure rate is 90-100%.
We encourage you to listen to the latest episode of the RESET podcast. This time our guest is Marek Rybiec – businessman, as one of 78 people from all over the world, he completed «4 Deserts» – ultramarathon taking place in extreme places around the world. She talks to Aleksandra Brzozowska about the challenge, mental strength and mindfulness training. Listen!