The former president Jair Bolsonaro70, was diagnosed, this Wednesday (17), with a scam cell carcinoma “in situ”. He had removed eight skin lesions days earlier, and two had cancer compatible characteristics.
According to the doctor José Jaburhead of the Santa Casa de São Paulo Dermatological Surgery and Mohs Group, the main risk factors for skin cancer involve personal characteristics and habitslike skin, eyes and light hair, freckles and excessive exposure to the sun.
It is among the most common in the world and, when detected early, usually has effective and simple treatment, usually with surgical removal. It is divided into two large groups: melanomas and non-melanomas.
The ones are more aggressive and can cause metastasis, while non-melanomas-category of the former president’s case-usually have a more favorable prognosis.
Risk factors and characteristics that increase vulnerability
For José Jabur, “the main risk factors for skin cancer are due to skin type, such as light skin, multiple spots, light eyes, light hair, freckles and red hair.” In addition, the personal and family history of skin cancer also increases vulnerability.
He stresses that these factors cannot be modified, but that excessive sun exposure, whether continuous or episodic, is a risk that can be controlled.
The Oncologist of OnCoclinicas Flávio Brandão It also points out that chronic sun exposure is the main risk factor and that the light color of the skin offers less natural protection against ultraviolet rays.
The dermatologist Rodrigo GoudartFrom the Advanced Nile Clinic, it points out that the use of tanning chambers, advanced age and immunosuppression are other relevant risks.
How to protect yourself from skin cancer?
Jabur explains that “the main ways to protect themselves are the photoprotection, avoiding sunburn and excessive exhibitionsand the realization of periodic dermatological examinations to detect any change early. ”
Flávio Brandão reinforces the importance of Continuous use of sunscreennot just on beach or pool days, but dailybecause sun exposure of everyday life is also harmful. For those who work outdoors, he recommends the use of ultraviolet protection clothes, considered personal protective equipment (PPE).
Rodrigo Goudart suggests practical measures how to use FPS 30 or more broad spectrum sunscreen, reapplied every two hoursAvoid intense sun exposure between 10am and 4pm, in addition to the use of hat, sunglasses and clothes that cover the body. He emphasizes that people exposed to the sun often need to be even more strict with these measures.
Jabur points out that “periodic dermatologist assessment is essential, especially for greater risk people, so that any suspicious injury is detected and treated at early stages.” THE Treatment in most cases is surgical and simple, with tumor removal, and has a high healing rate.
Family history and genetics
Family history is a factor that deserves attention, especially for melanoma cases, as pointed out.
Jabur explains that “family history, especially among first -degree relatives, increases the risk, as these people usually inherit a lighter and more susceptible skin.”
Flávio Brandão also cites rare genetic syndromes, such as Pigmentosa Xeroderma and Albinismwhich significantly raise the risk.
Skin Cancer Treatment
The most common treatment for skin cancer is the surgical removal of the tumor. Jabur stresses that “the skin is an external organ and, therefore, the first measure is always remove the tumor surgicallywith procedures that vary according to the type and aggressiveness of cancer. ”
