There is a common misconception that having a darker complexion means you are protected from the sun's UV rays, and it's a dangerous myth.
According to the Times of India, Indians believe in the they are not prone to skin cancer because of the higher concentration of melanin or pigmentation. While one in every five Americans may reportedly develop skin cancer, the statistics for Indians are not as high.
However, Bandra resident Anu Singh* is an example that skin care is important. "I have basal skin cancer-a disease I never thought existed in India," she said. Though Basal skin is a less serious for of cancer, it can lead to disfigurement if left untreated, according to reports.
Singh had a mole removed, but it grew back four years later, according to the Times of India. "The first doctor who removed the mole said it was extra skin growth and no cause to worry," she said, but when it reappeared a different doctor who insisted on a skin biopsy.
The Times of India reports a new multi-centric research of over 2,500 patients says that skin cancer is even more common than previously believed.
"Over 20% of the excised lesions in our study were skin cancer," said Dr Debraj Shome who treated Singh and led the study.
According to the Times of India, the most common type found in the study was basal skin cancer with an incidence of 12.1%.
"People of all skin colors get skin cancer. More than 3.5 million skin cancers in more than 2 million people are diagnosed annually, " the American Academy of Dermatolgy (ADD) stated. "Many of these skin cancers could have been prevented with protection from the sun's rays."
Take care this summer when you are out in the sun. The ADD suggests that you purchase sunscreen that protects you from the following:
1. Broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays).
2. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or greater.
3. Water resistance.
For more information about how you can protect yourself from harmful exposure in the sun, click here.
*NOTE: Times of India reports Anu Singh name was changed.
