5 MYTHS ABOUT SKIN CANCER

We're shining a bright UV light on some confusing issues—now you'll be totally covered this summer.

- BY KATE ROCKWOOD

1 MYTH:

Only sun exposure causes skin cancer.

MYTHBUSTER

UV exposure is far from the only factor—genetics, chronic diseases, certain chemicals, medications, radiation, and even viruses can increase your risk for skin cancer, says Adam Friedman, M.D., professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences. For example, the HPV virus has been linked to squamous cell carcinoma, and a tenth of people with melanoma have a family history of the disease. Also, melanoma can pop up in places on the body that get little to no sun exposure, such as under the fingernails or toenails and in the mouth and genital areas. That's why everyone should get a yearly skin exam done by a professional and also do regular self-checks of their skin.

2 MYTH:

Most skin cancer is no big deal.

MYTHBUSTER

Left untreated, it could be a very big deal. This is especially true for melanoma, but also consider basal cell carcinoma, which accounts for 80% of cases. It rarely spreads or is deadly, “but if left untreated, it can invade deeper structures like muscle and bone,” says Dr. Friedman, resulting in disfigurement. And while melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate when it is found early, that rate drops to 35% if it’s discovered after it has spread to distant parts of the body. This is why it's important to be vigilant about common signs of skin cancer and have a dermatologist check as well, Dr. Friedman says. “Whether it's a changing mole, a sore that won't heal, or an unusual spot in an unexpected area, getting it checked can be lifesaving,” he says.

3 MYTH: