Why Skin Cancer Kills More Men Than Women

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Wow, who woulda thought the chair of the dermatology department at Boston University would leave out other major reasons like hormones. Must be why most melanoma patients head to Texas.

HarryObrian of CA 4:17PM January 20, 2011

I am a 63 old women and my husband is 60 and we both have had basel cell cancers removed. I had one on my nose removed 3 years ago and my husband had a large one removed off the top of his head, and yes he has been balding for years. In my case, the doctors told me I am at risk for melanoma because I have blue eyes and light skinned and also because I have had two removed already. The second one was pre-cancerous and on my lower leg. I used to love to lay out in the sun and also tanned. So ladies watch out especially if you are light skinned and have blue eyes. So wear your sunscreen and cover up when outside.

Dee of GA 9:23AM March 29, 2010

Between 10am and 4pm is when the sun is it strongest and worst and is when you need to be wearing your sunscreen. You can go out and get your vitamin D from the sun before and after these times without sunscreen. But in addition or instead of going out in the sun, look at what is in your milk, cereals, and other foods. Most have Vitamin D added. So you are likely getting your vitamin D from the foods you eat.

Andrea of MD 1:42PM March 09, 2009

There seems to be a dilemma here: in order to get enough Vitamin D, you need some sunlight exposure. And sunscreen tends to block the absorption of that vitamin. On the other hand, skin cancer is a very serious disease and, consequently, one needs to protact his or her skin with at least an SPF 15, if not SPF 30, sunscreen. Where is the "happy median" here? Any thoughts or suggestions? Thanks.

Carlo J. Avogaro of CA 9:02PM June 26, 2008