Men More Likely to Die from Skin Cancer than Women

New research shows that men are 70 percent more likely than women to die from malignant melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.

The Cancer Research UK studied data from 2011 and found that although similar numbers of women and men were diagnosed with melanoma, 3.4 men per 100,000 die from the disease compared with two per 100,000 women.

Further analysis shows that, of the 6,200 men who develop melanoma each year, 1,300 die from it, while only 900 women out of 6,600 who develop the disease die.

This gap is predicted to widen even more in the future, since death rates from malignant melanoma are increasing in men, but remaining stable in women.

"Research has suggested the difference between the sexes could be in part because men are more likely to be diagnosed when melanoma is at a more advanced stage,” said Professor Julia Newton-Bishop, Cancer Research UK dermatologist from the University of Leeds.

We also know that men and women tend to develop melanoma in different places – more often on the back and chest for men and on the arms and legs for women.

According to Cancer Research UK, death rates for men with melanoma have increased by 185 percent since the early 1970s. On the other hand, death rates for women have only increased 55 percent.

“One of the reasons for the difference [between men and women] may be attitudes towards seeing a doctor. [Women] tend to be reluctant to 'waste' the doctor's time - men are especially likely to put it off,” said Sara Hion, director of early diagnosis at Cancer Research UK.”

It is essential for people to protect their skin from the sun. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Note that even products labeled “waterproof” or “sweatproof” only protect you for 40 minutes while swimming or sweating. Greenville Dermatology’s retail store carries a wide selection of broad-spectrum sunscreens that are ideal for everyday use.

Early detection of melanoma plus regular skin exams is vital for beating the disease. When detected in its earliest stages, melanoma is 99 percent curable. Call Greenville Dermatology today at (864) 242-5872 to make an appointment with a dermatologist.

The 6 Foods that Will Save Your Skin

If you want clean, healthy skin look no further than what you are putting into your body. There is ample research these days that says what you eat can affect many aspects of your body, but especially your skin. There are many sources that cite specific foods that are good for your skin.  Below, we list six that we believe are most beneficial and are consistently credited with skin benefits.

1.       Water

Hydration plays a big role in keeping skin looking healthy and young, according to many sources. Additionally, it is suggested that hard water, the kind that is high in minerals, is especially good. Water is also helpful in getting cells to move nutrients in and toxins out of the body. Prevention says that water makes your skin appear plumper and less wrinkled.

2.       Dark chocolate

Chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants called flavanols, which Fitness Magazine says will hydrate your skin and make it firmer and more supple. Prevention.com also mentions dark chocolate as having skin benefits saying that it not only hydrate skin, but also improves circulation.

3.       Oatmeal

In this category, steel cut oats are the best choice because they are less processed, therefore retaining more vitamins, according to Fit  Magazine. The Huffington Post featured an article on oatmeal’s beauty benefits saying it is full of vitamins, minerals, and lipids that will add moisture to skin. It also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so it is ideal for sensitive skin, and can be used in a bath soak or face wash.

4.       Green Tea

Green tea has health benefits that can reach all parts of the body, but in regards to skin, sources say that it can reduce redness, make your skin more elastic and smooth and boost blood flow and oxygen to the skin. WebMD says green tea may even help prevent or reduce the risk of skin cancer.

5.       Walnuts

Walnuts contain omega-3 essential fatty acids, which not only softens skin but improve its elasticity as well. Prevention.com lists walnuts as especially important to vegetarians who skip fish because omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the diet.

6.       Tomatoes

This vegetable is the most beneficial for your skin when it is cooked. This way, your body will gain the most sun shielding nutrients. According to Women’s Health Magazine, lycopene is the phytochemical that makes tomatoes red and has the ability to eliminate skin-again free radicals from UV rays. Prevention.com also says that tomatoes improve our skin’s natural SPF to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.

In general, remember to stay away from processed foods and added sugars as best you can, and instead stick with natural, whole foods. If you make an effort to incorporate some of these six foods into your eating habits, your skin will surely reap the benefits.

If you have any questions about what you are eating and its affect on your skin, our team at Greenville Dermatology is available for answers and advice. Call Greenville Dermatology at 864-242-5872 to schedule an appointment today.