A client asks the nurse what risk factors increase the changes of getting skin cancer.

Conditions that increase risks for skin cancer are: light or fair complexion, history of having bad sunburns or scars from previous burns, personal or family history of skin cancer, frequently working or playing outdoors with exposure to the sun, exposure to X-rays or radiation, exposure to certain chemicals through work or hobbies (coal, pitch, asphalt, petroleum), repeated trauma or injury to an area resulting in scars, older than age 50, male gender, and living in a geographic location near the equator or at high altitudes. Ways to prevent skin cancer are avoiding exposure to the sun, wearing a hat to protect the face, avoiding all sun lamps, and using a sunscreen with a minimum of 15 sun protection factor (SPF) if exposure to the sun is unavoidable. Teaching clients how to recognize a potential problem involves inspecting the skin frequently; noting all birthmarks, freckles, and moles; and seeking medical assistance if any of the following are noted: change in color, change in shape, change in surface texture, change in size, change in the surrounding skin, or a new mole or a sore that does not heal.HealthPromotion and Maintenance