15/12/2023

IMPA promotes lecture on skin cancer prevention.

With the aim of raising awareness about the importance of preventing skin cancer, IMPA held a lecture this Friday morning (15) with dermatologist Flávia Haikal. The meeting marks the Orange December campaign, promoted by the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), which reinforces the need for protection against UVA and UVB rays throughout the year.

According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), this type of cancer is the most frequent in Brazil and accounts for 30% of malignant tumors registered in the country.

"Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most frequent type of cancer in Brazil and also the most common in the world. It occurs more often in men than in women. We believe this is because men take even less care of themselves than women. The good news is that there is a lower mortality rate if it is treated properly. That's where the importance of prevention comes in, because it becomes serious if left untreated, but if treated early, the chance of a cure is very high," said the dermatologist.

In addition to explaining the classifications of skin cancer, Flávia reinforced the need to observe moles on the body, have an annual consultation with a dermatologist, use sunscreen, and wear accessories that prevent direct exposure, such as shirts with sun protection technology, as well as hats, caps, and other items.

The doctor also drew attention to the presence of hidden lesions in tattoos and even on the scalp – a region that is rarely observed. Flávia also reinforced the need for extra care with children. "The skin has memory," the doctor stated, explaining the effect of "radiation accumulation" throughout life.

Despite growing awareness about skin cancer, data from INCA (Brazilian National Cancer Institute) still estimates that, by 2025, Brazil will register 704,000 new cases of the disease per year.