Category: Cancer

Medically Reviewed By: Catherine Pisano, MD

Catching skin cancer early will often lead to a better prognosis for patients and can mean avoiding extensive surgeries or other treatments depending on the cancer. 

To do so, physicians recommend: 

• Regular monthly self-examinations of your skin, which will allow you to track changes in your skin and alert a physician about any concerns. 
• A yearly annual evaluation by a dermatologist if you have many moles (more than 50), atypical moles, a family history of melanoma, a personal history of skin cancer, are immunosuppressed, or have other risk factors. 

How do I perform a self-exam for skin cancer? 

Experts recommend monthly self-exams begin at age 18. To conduct a self-exam, use the acronym ABCDE (asymmetry, border, color, diameter/ugly duckling, evolution) to evaluate if a mole on your body could be something more serious. If any spots seem unusual, consult your doctor as soon as possible. 

• A – Asymmetry: When one half of the lesion is unlike the other. 
• B – Border: When the lesion has an irregular, scalloped (a series of curves), or poorly defined border. 
• C – Color: If the color of the lesion varies from one area to the next or has several different colors (tan, brown, black, white, red, or purple). 
• D – Diameter/Ugly Duckling: Melanomas are usually bigger than 6mm
  • (about the width of a pencil eraser) but can be smaller if diagnosed early. If the diameter of a lesion is increasing rapidly, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. The “ugly duckling” rule, meaning one mole on your body looks very different from all the others, is another reason to consult your doctor. 
• E – Evolving: When the lesion changes in size, shape, color, or becomes symptomatic. 

Regular checks are an effective way to get to know your skin and identify any changes in it, one of the first things a dermatologist will want to be alerted about.  

If you have darker skin, pay special attention to your hands and feet where melanoma is more common for patients with darker skin tones.

Consult with a physician if you see a finger or toenail changing color, or a concerning lesion on your hands or feet. 

How do I know if I should be concerned about skin cancer? 

If you have many moles (more than 50), atypical moles, or a family history of melanoma, a personal history of skin cancer, or are immunosuppressed, you should have an annual evaluation by a dermatologist. Other risk factors include: 

• A family history of other types of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma) 
• A personal history of excessive sun exposure with frequent sun burns 
• Tanning bed usage 
• Having fair skin that burns easily 
• A tendency to freckle 
• Being a white man older than 65 (this is a population of people who frequently have advanced melanomas at the time of diagnosis) 

Anyone can develop skin cancer regardless of skin type or age. Even people who aren’t at particularly high risk of skin cancer should perform regular skin checks  

If you are at an elevated risk, you should ask your primary care physicians about skin exams. These are not usually part of a routine physical exam. Individuals concerned about melanoma or other skin cancers should ask their primary care physicians to refer them to a dermatologist.  

Sun safety tips 

It is important to keep yourself protected from the sun. To maintain healthy skin, limit sun exposure and use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours, or wear protective clothing. 

We invite you to visit the Dana-Farber booth to address any concerns you may have about cancer.

Meet experts in your language who can provide valuable resources and answer your questions. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to receive specialized guidance and support in the fight against cancer.

Source: Read the complete article

Published: May 10, 2024

In a recent edition of the show “Órale con Verónica,” Sabrina González, Community Outreach Specialist at Dana-Farber, was interviewed about skin cancer.

This organization, known for its dedication to cancer research and prevention, has launched an innovative initiative. The Blum Family Resource Van is making a significant difference in skin cancer detection in the Boston community.

The Blum Family Resource Van: A Mobile Clinic Serving the Community

It visits areas around Boston, up to 30 miles out, traveling north to Nahant and Cape Cod.

With the assistance of a dermatologist to conduct skin cancer screenings, the Van typically operates for 4 hours at each event, inviting anyone nearby to get checked. According to Sabrina, the goal is to make early detection of skin cancer accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation or health insurance status.

Upcoming Event at Revere Beach

The next event will be at Revere Beach on Thursday, June 27, from 10 am to 2 pm.

The Van will be located on the main boulevard near Shirley Avenue. Sabrina emphasizes that the Van is easy to recognize, as it is large and prominently displays the Dana-Farber logo.

What to Expect During a Screening?

Participants should be prepared for the dermatologist to check their entire skin, with special attention to areas most exposed to the sun and those difficult to see, like the back.

Participants will fill out a form about their sun exposure habits and any history of skin cancer. This service is completely free and does not require health insurance.

What Happens if a Cancer Sign is Detected?

Dana-Farber coordinates urgent appointments with Brigham and Women’s Hospital, ensuring participants see a doctor and get the necessary biopsies as soon as possible. Sabrina highlighted the importance of early detection, as skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early.

Sun Protection: Practical Tips

Sabrina also shared valuable tips on sun protection. She recommended:

• Using sunscreen that feels good on your skin
• Applying it 15 minutes before going outside
• Reapplying it throughout the day, especially if spending a lot of time outdoors
• Using protective clothing and sunglasses for additional protection

More Information

For more information about the Blum Van events, visit Dana-Farber’s booth at myhealthfair.com.

This initiative is an invaluable opportunity for the Boston community.

If you’re in the area, don’t hesitate to visit the Blum Family Resource Van and take advantage of this free service.

Your skin health is important—take care of yourself and protect your family!

Prostate cancer and colorectal cancer are two of the most common types of cancer affecting men. These cancers often do not present symptoms in their early stages, making early detection through regular screenings crucial.

Visiting the doctor regularly for early detection tests can make a significant difference in identifying and treating these cancers before they become serious problems.

La Hora del Café: Un Minuto de Salud with Dr. Javier Mora

Dr. Javier Mora is a radiation oncologist in Boston, Massachusetts. He received his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals, Inc.

As a bilingual physician, he is dedicated to including the most marginalized communities and advocating for equitable access to our healthcare system. His goal is to eradicate the health disparities that plague our neighborhoods.

Dr. Mora specializes in radiation oncology, treating cancer using various forms of radiation to detect and eliminate malignant cells.

Prostate Cancer and the PSA Test

The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA in the body.

An elevated PSA level can be a sign of prostate cancer, but it is not always the case. It is important to evaluate the results in the context of the patient, as other conditions can also increase PSA levels. Therefore, an elevated result requires further evaluation and often additional tests to confirm or rule out a cancer diagnosis.

Colorectal Cancer Detection

Several tests are available for the detection of colorectal cancer. One of the most common is the fecal occult blood test (FOBT). If this test is positive, it does not automatically mean that the patient has cancer. More studies are needed, and in many cases, a biopsy confirms the diagnosis.

Another effective method is a colonoscopy, a procedure performed by a gastroenterologist that allows direct visualization of the colon and identification of potential abnormalities.

The Importance of a Primary Care Physician

The primary care physician or healthcare provider plays a crucial role in the early detection of cancer. This professional can order initial tests, such as the PSA and the fecal test for colorectal cancer. Additionally, they can refer patients to specialists, such as gastroenterologists, for more specific procedures like a colonoscopy.

Tips for Early Detection

1. Regular Doctor Visits:
   Keep regular appointments with your primary care physician to undergo early detection exams, especially if you have risk factors.
2. PSA Tests:
   Consult about the PSA test if you are over 50 years old or have a family history of prostate cancer.
3. Stool Tests and Colonoscopies:
   From the age of 45, consider undergoing colorectal cancer screening tests, such as the FOBT and colonoscopy.
4. Referrals to Specialists:
   Ask your primary care physician to refer you to a specialist if more detailed tests are necessary.
5. Education and Awareness:
   Stay informed about the symptoms and risk factors of prostate and colorectal cancer, and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Early detection is key in the fight against prostate and colorectal cancer. Regular screenings and maintaining open communication with your primary care physician can help identify these cancers in their early stages, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Visit our virtual fair at myhealthfair.com and find health resources for you and your family.

The health of every individual requires continuous attention and care.

When it comes to cancer, prevention and detection are fundamental pillars in the fight against the disease.

Prevention and detection are crucial in combating all types of cancer, such as cervical cancer.

There are two main ways to prevent cervical cancer. The first is through the HPV vaccine, and the second is with a Pap smear.

What is the HPV Vaccine?

HPV is an extremely common virus transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact.

Almost everyone will have HPV at some point in their lives. While most cases do not cause cancer, some can lead to cervical cancer, as well as oropharyngeal, anal, vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancer.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent these types of cancer in the future.

The HPV vaccine is recommended for everyone, regardless of gender, between the ages of 9 and 26.

In addition to vaccination, it is important for all individuals with a cervix to undergo cervical cancer screening starting at age 21.

What is Cervical Cancer Screening?

Screening, the second way to combat this disease, is when we look for early signs of cancer before symptoms begin.

We can perform cervical cancer screening tests with a Pap smear or an HPV test.

The Pap smear, or Pap test, is used for cervical cancer screening. During the procedure, a healthcare professional takes a sample of cells from the cervix and sends them for analysis.

An HPV test is similar to a Pap smear. For this procedure, your provider will take a sample from your cervix to detect signs of HPV.

Depending on your provider, you may be offered a Pap smear, an HPV test, or both.

Regular cancer screening tests, such as Pap smears or HPV tests, are important because they provide the opportunity to detect cancer or abnormalities that could become cancer when treatment is most effective.

In addition to detecting and preventing cervical cancer, Pap smears and HPV tests are also important for our reproductive health.

Screening and early treatment of conditions such as cervical infections or precancerous lesions can preserve the health of the reproductive system.

Final Recommendations

Vaccination and screening are essential tools in the fight against cervical cancer. Talk to your doctor about the HPV vaccine and, if you have a cervix, the best screening program for you.

Visit the Dana-Farber booth for detailed information and guidance from bilingual experts on early detection, treatments, and support for those affected by cancer.

Cancer Risk Assessment and understanding your risk for breast and ovarian cancer is a critical step in early detection and prevention.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, in its commitment to providing people with knowledge, has launched an innovative tool, Assess Your Risk.

This free online cancer education tool is designed to help you assess your personal risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

The Cancer Risk Assessment Process

AssessYourRisk is a 5- to 10-minute questionnaire that delves into various aspects of your lifestyle, health history and genetics.

By answering these questions, you will receive valuable information about factors that may increase or decrease your risk of developing these cancers.

The tool focuses on people 18 and older with no personal history of breast or ovarian cancer.

The questions cover a variety of topics including:

1. Biological Sex:

AssessYourRisk takes into account the biological sex assigned at birth, recognizing that anyone can get breast cancer.

2. Genetics and Family Health History:

While you don’t need to know your family history of cancer to complete the quiz, certain cancer diagnoses in close relatives can impact your risk and when you should be screened for cancer.

3. Estrogen Exposure:

Questions related to your hormones, like age at first menstrual period, age at menopause, birth control use and hormone therapy are included as they impact your risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

Understanding your cancer risk

By completing the questionnaire, your risk factors are categorized into higher risk, possible risk and protective factors.

Factors under “Higher or Possible Risk” indicate items that may increase cancer risk, while those under “Protective” suggest ways to reduce risk.

You can explore each result to gain a deeper understanding and access personalized recommendations.

However, It is critical to remember that this tool is not a substitute for medical advice.

The results should be shared with your health care provider during your next appointment.

For a more accurate risk assessment, it is advisable to discuss the results with a physician or genetic counselor.

Dana-Farber’s commitment to early detection

Dana-Farber’s acquisition of AssessYourRisk in 2021 and its subsequent launch in 2023 is a testament to its dedication to promoting cancer prevention and early detection.

The tool underwent extensive review by clinical and community experts, ensuring its reliability and accuracy.

By offering an informative, accessible, and easy-to-use tool like AssessYourRisk, Dana-Farber is empowering people to take control of their health.

Also, understand their cancer risk, and ultimately make informed decisions for a cancer-free future.

Remember, knowledge is the first step in the fight against cancer.

To take the quiz, visit assessyourrisk.org.

You can also visit Dana Farber’s table on our website.

Disclaimer:
The information contained on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.

Readers should direct any questions regarding their personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.

Treating breast cancer and understanding breast cancer is critical to reducing its impact.

In the United States alone, it is estimated that about 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer during her lifetime.

While these statistics sound scary, knowledge is power when it comes to fighting and treating breast cancer.

What are the risk factors, the hereditary and genetic aspects, the different stages of the disease and the specialized programs that offer support and hope?

Breast Cancer Risk Factors:

Understanding breast cancer risk factors is a crucial first step in its prevention and early detection:

• Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and most cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50.
• Gender: Although breast cancer can affect men, it is much more common in women.
• Family history: a family history of breast cancer can raise your risk, especially if first-degree, blood-related relatives such as a mother, sister or daughter have been diagnosed.
• Genetic mutations: Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Personal history: a previous diagnosis of breast cancer increases the likelihood of recurrence.
• Hormone replacement therapy: prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy may slightly raise the risk.
• Radiation exposure: high levels of radiation exposure, especially during early life, may increase risk.
• Dense breast tissue: Women told by a healthcare provider that they have dense breast tissue have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Stages of Breast Cancer:

Breast cancer is labeled in stages from 0 to IV, with stage 0 being non-invasive and stage IV indicating advanced disease that has spread:

• Stage 0: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a non-invasive breast cancer confined to the milk ducts.
• Stage I: small tumors have formed but have not spread to lymph nodes or distant sites.
• Stage II: Tumors may be larger or have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: locally advanced cancer, often involving multiple lymph nodes or surrounding tissues.
• Stage IV: metastatic breast cancer has spread to distant organs such as the bones, liver or lungs.

Specialized Programs to Treat Breast Cancer:

Specialized breast cancer programs and centers play a key role in diagnosis, treatment and support:

• Comprehensive Cancer Centers: these centers offer multidisciplinary teams of experts in oncology, surgery, radiology and genetics.
• Breast health clinics: specialized clinics offering screening, risk assessment, genetic counseling and personalized care plans.
• Supportive care programs: programs offer emotional support, survivorship care and resources for patients and their families.
• Clinical trials: cutting-edge research and clinical trials in specialized programs contribute to advances in breast cancer treatment.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: a Pioneer in Breast Cancer Care and Treatment

Here’s how Dana-Farber helps women with breast cancer:

1. Experts Who Specialize in Treating Breast Cancer:

Dana-Farber has a team of world-class oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses who specialize in breast cancer.

These experts work together to decide how to care for the individual patient, ensuring the most effective and personalized care.

2. Multidisciplinary Care:

Breast cancer care at Dana-Farber follows a multidisciplinary approach.

Patients benefit from a team of specialists who collectively evaluate and plan treatment strategies.

This ensures that all aspects of care are considered, from surgery to radiation therapy to medical oncology.

3. Cutting-edge Research:

Dana-Farber is at the forefront of breast cancer research.

The Institute develops new scientific studies and makes them available to the community with the goal of developing new therapies and treatment approaches to help people heal. 

4. Supportive Care:

Dana-Farber offers a variety of supportive care services, including counseling, support groups, to help patients and their families cope with the disease.

5. Patient-centered Approach:

The institute places a strong emphasis on patient-centered care.

Dana-Farber health professionals make sure patients and their loved ones understand medical information, include them in decision-making and think about the individual’s overall well-being throughout the treatment process.

6. Community Outreach:

Dana-Farber goes out into the community to raise breast cancer awareness, provide information on risk factors and screening, and promote early detection, which means finding cancer in the body before there are any symptoms.

7. Equity and Inclusiveness:

Dana-Farber is committed to addressing health care disparities and ensuring equitable access to care. The Institute offers high-quality cancer care to individuals from all backgrounds, languages and identities.

Efforts are made to reach out to minority and underserved populations, including Latinos, Arabs, African Americans, and others who may face unique challenges in accessing care.

Advances in early detection, personalized treatment and supportive care are transforming the disease landscape.

Regular screenings, knowing one’s own family or personal risk factors and understanding special treatment programs can help an individual feel better sooner.  

In the fight against breast cancer, knowledge and hope are our most powerful allies.

Visit Dana Farber Cancer Institute’s table and learn more about their programs this month as we commemorate the fight against breast cancer.

Our sources: https://www.dana-farber.org/

Disclaimer:
The information contained on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.

Readers should direct any questions regarding their personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.

The warmth of the sun can be tempting, but it is essential to enjoy it responsibly.

Sun protection, proper skin care and early detection of skin cancer are essential.

Dana Farber Cancer Institute aims to promote awareness of the importance of sun protection, educate about effective skin care practices and emphasize the importance of regular screenings for early detection of skin cancer.

By taking proactive steps and adopting preventive measures, we can all enjoy the sun’s rays while keeping our skin safe.

Sun Protection: Understanding Sun Safety

The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage our skin.

Overexposure to these rays is a major cause of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous form.

Sun safety involves taking precautions to minimize sunburn, premature aging and the risk of developing skin cancer.

Key Sun Protection Practices Include:

• Limiting sun exposure during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
• Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing.
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher generously and frequently to exposed skin.
• Seek shade when the sun’s rays are intense.
• Avoiding artificial tanning beds, which emit harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Warning Signs

It is important to periodically monitor your skin for changes that may indicate a possible skin lesion or skin cancer.

While only a medical professional can provide a definitive diagnosis, here are some signs to watch for:

• Unusual moles: keep an eye out for moles or freckles that change in size, shape or color. Look for asymmetrical moles, irregular borders or color variations within a single mole.
• New growth or spot: watch for any new growths, spots or patches on your skin that look different from the surrounding skin. These may be raised, scaly or crusted.
• Changes in existing moles: watch for any changes in existing moles, such as itching, bleeding, or changes in size, shape or color.
• Non-healing sores: monitor any sores or wounds that do not heal within a few weeks. They may continue to bleed, crust over or remain open.
• Redness or swelling: note any persistent redness or swelling around a particular area of your skin.
• Itching or pain: note any persistent itching, pain or tenderness in a specific spot on the skin.
• Spots that look like scars: look for spots that look like scars but are not the result of any injury or trauma.
• Textural changes: Note any changes in the texture of your skin, such as roughness, scaling or the appearance of an ulcer.

Remember that these signs do not necessarily indicate skin cancer, but should alert you to seek medical evaluation.

If you notice any concerning changes in your skin, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Regular self-examinations and annual screening exams can help in the early detection and treatment of possible skin cancer.

The Importance of Skin Cancer Screening Exams

Regular skin cancer screenings are vital for early detection and treatment:

Early detection:

Skin cancer, when detected early, is highly treatable.

Regular examinations allow dermatologists to identify suspicious moles, growths or lesions that may indicate skin cancer.

Timely diagnosis and treatment increase the chances of successful outcomes.

Risk assessment:

A professional evaluation helps assess your individual risk factors for skin cancer.

Dermatologists can evaluate your skin type, family history and previous sun exposure to determine personalized recommendations and precautions.

Education:

Skin cancer screenings provide the opportunity for educational discussions with dermatologists.

They can provide guidance on sun protection measures, self-examination techniques and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Peace of mind:

Knowing that you have had a comprehensive skin exam gives you peace of mind and allows you to take control of your skin health.

Early detection provides peace of mind and reduces anxiety about potential skin cancer problems.

Prevention strategies:

Dermatologists can provide personalized advice on sun protection, including proper use of sunscreen, choice of clothing and avoiding tanning beds.

They can also discuss lifestyle changes that promote overall skin health and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

It is paramount to take advantage of the sun safely by taking proactive steps to protect your skin.

By following sun protection practices, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak hours, you can minimize your risk.

Remember, the key to a healthy, sun-protected lifestyle lies in education, prevention and early detection.

Our sources: Dana Farber.

Disclaimer:
The information contained on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.

Readers should direct any questions regarding their personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.