Prevention of squamous cell
carcinoma includes:
- Avoid exposure to the sun when UV rays are strongest. Snow and water reflect the sun's rays and can worsen the effect of the sun.
- Wear protective clothing, and a hat or visor, to help protect the skin.
- Use sunscreen whenever in the sun for more than 30 minutes.
- Use sunscreen that protects against UV rays.
- Perform routine self-examination of your skin areas on a weekly basis.
- Moles or old lesions should be observed closely for any changes in color, size, or overall appearance.
- People at increased risk should see a dermatologist regularly.
- Learn the American Cancer Society's ABCD rules for skin lesions:
- A: asymmetry: one-half of the mole does not match the other half.
- B: border irregularity: the edges of the mole are ragged or notched.
- C: color: the color of the mole is not the same all over. There may be shades of tan, brown, or black, and sometimes patches of red, blue, or white.
- D: diameter: the mole is wider than about 1/4 inch
