Man up and slather on your sunscreen

Skin cancer is a widespread issue, not discriminating between race, culture, age, or gender. However, studies reveal it to be more prevalent among men. Globally, men have a 14% higher incidence of skin cancer than women. In South Africa, exposure to the often-unforgiving sun significantly contributes to this increased prevalence, with males comprising about 70% of all skin cancer diagnoses. This alarming statistic certainly highlights an urgent need for more concerted prevention efforts.

Men's increased risk of skin cancer is due in part to occupational exposure to UV radiation, with many men spending their working hours outdoors, as well as a generally lower engagement in sun protection.

Therefore, it's crucial for men to ramp up their skin protection measures. Some protective strategies include:

Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher;

• Wearing sun-protective clothing, and
• Seeking shade during peak UV exposure hours, typically between 10:00 to 16:00

The lower survival rates from skin cancer in men could also be attributed to men often seeking medical help late. The good news is that skin cancer has a high success rate for recovery when detected early, with a five-year survival rate of 99% for localised melanoma, the most common type of skin cancer in men.

It's important to highlight the importance of regular skin checks and prioritisation of skin health among men. It's crucial to remember that skin cancer can manifest in numerous ways. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

1. A new growth or sore that doesn't heal: Skin cancer might appear as a pimple-like growth that bleeds easily, crusts over, heals and reappears.
2. Changes to existing moles: Noticing changes in the size, shape, colour, or texture of a mole can be a sign.
3. The development of a rough or scaly red patch which may ooze or bleed, resembling eczema.
4. The emergence of new spots or moles that look abnormal: These can be tan, black, red, pink, white, or even blue or purple. They're often irregular in shape, with uneven borders.
5. Other skin changes: Itching, tenderness or pain, changes in pigmentation beyond the border of a mole or a spreading colour from the border of a mole into the surrounding skin, and inflammation of the skin nearest to the border are all noteworthy.

Seek professional medical advice if you notice any suspicious changes or unexplained skin symptoms.

Just by being more aware of the higher risk, spreading awareness, and encouraging preventative measures, we can do our part to turn the tide against skin cancer.