Can sun exposure from 20-30-40 years ago still become skin cancer?
I wear sun block now, and a hat, and sun shirts quite often. And I never lay out in the sun. But, back in the 80's, I used to put on baby oil and float down the river on a raft or inner tube several times a week all summer long. I'm 63 now. I've been going to dermatologist for annual full body skin checks and there's never been a problem, fortunately, but does that mean I've dodged a bullet? Or could something appears years after exposure. I also got a bad sunburn on my back nearly 10 years ago while snorkeling without protection for hours.
Hi
. I am in a similar situation. I didn't use baby oil, but I never used sunscreen as a kid. Burning until my shoulders blistered was a rite of summer in the 70s and 80s. I've had one precancerous mole removed, but nothing else so far, thank goodness. I don't think we'll ever know for sure whether we've dodged a bullet. My mother-in-law got her first basal cell carcinoma in her 70s and then never had any more. Here is an article about risk factors and average age of diagnosis that might interest you: https://skincancer.net/basics/risk-factors. I hope it puts you at ease a bit. I'm glad you're having skin checks done once a year. I hope you keep them up and that the results are always negative. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member) What triggered my worries is that a friend recently was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma on her face and has to have MOHS surgery followed by same day skin grafts and plastic surgery. And I just think of all the careless sunbathing I did in my life and wondering if I really have dodged a bullet. I also wonder if my dermatologist is being thorough enough! As you may know, you can get skin cancer anywhere, even on skin that's never been exposed to the sun. No dermatologist has ever been as thorough as the articles say they should be. But asking is kind of awkward. I'll try next time. She never seems to have as much time for me as I think they should. Hi
. My heart goes out to your friend. I can see why her experience makes you nervous. It can be really hard to advocate for yourself with doctors in our culture. But doctors are human, just like their patients. Despite all their training, they sometimes overlook things and make mistakes, especially if they are rushing. It's more than okay to ask your doctor to do a more thorough examination and to ask why if your doctor refuses. Keep in mind that you are paying for these services. You deserve to get what you paid for. I hope you are able get past the awkwardness and have an open conversation with your doctor about the exams. If that feels too difficult, you might find it easier to message your doctor through the clinic's portal before your next appointment and ask for a more thorough exam. Sending lots of gentle hugs your way. - Lori (Team Member)
Thanks, I'll keep you posted!
