Research
Recent research has highlighted potential skin cancer and melanoma risks for pregnant women and enthusiastically encouraged that expectant mothers take care to maintain healthy skin and recognize potentially serious signs and skin cancer symptoms.
Recent studies have highlighted that pregnant women who suffer from skin cancer have an increased risk of death from the disease in comparison to non-pregnant patients. The study, conducted by researchers at the Cleveland Clinic’s Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Institute, offered alarming results that suggested that pregnant women or those who had given birth with a year are up to five times more likely to die of melanoma than non-pregnant counterparts. Further studies completed by Cancer Research UK have determined that hormones do not necessarily increase skin cancer risks, but confirm that more women than men suffer from melanoma.
What does a normal mole look like?
Recognize symptoms
In order to minimize the risk of skin cancer, it is vital to be able to recognize symptoms such as red spots on the skin, nonhealing wounds, lumps and changes in moles and freckles. As well as this, individuals are encouraged to minimize exposure to the sun, avoid the use of sunbeds and maintain a healthy diet to promote healthy skin. The majority of pregnant women will adopt a more intense skincare regime throughout their pregnancy to minimize the risk of damage such as stretch marks. This provides an excellent opportunity to understand normal skin health and readily recognize any changes. Early diagnosis of conditions such as skin cancer can ensure swift and effective treatment, making it essential to respond quickly to any adverse changes.
Don’t trust it? See a doctor.
The research findings may make for alarming reading, but reassuringly, early treatment offers an excellent prognosis and so it is imperative to see your doctor or dermatologist as soon as possible for any skin complaints you don’t trust. Taking a keen responsibility for your skin health will inevitably promote the potential for an enjoyable and healthy pregnancy.
