Skin Cancer Awareness in the Cayman Islands: What You Need to Know

The stunning sunshine and clear blue skies of the Cayman Islands make outdoor living a daily pleasure. But with year-round sunshine comes increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation—a major risk factor for skin cancer. Understanding your personal risk and knowing how to protect your skin can help reduce the likelihood of developing this potentially life-threatening condition.

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when the DNA in skin cells becomes damaged often due to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds—causing cells to grow uncontrollably. Over time, these abnormal cells can develop into tumours. While sun exposure is a leading cause, other risk factors such as genetics, skin type, immune suppression, and certain medical conditions can also contribute.
There are two primary categories of skin cancer:

• Non-melanoma skin cancers: Includes basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – these are the most common and typically less aggressive.
• Melanoma: Less common but more dangerous, melanoma can spread quickly if not caught early.

Though most skin cancers occur on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, arms, and legs, they can also appear in areas with little or no sun exposure – such as the scalp, groin, soles of the feet, and under the nails.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Several factors can increase your risk of developing skin cancer, including:

1. Excessive sun exposure, especially without adequate protection.
2. History of sunburns, particularly blistering sunburns during childhood.
3. Family history of skin cancer or melanoma.
4. Skin type: Fair-skinned individuals burn more easily and are at higher risk. However, darker skin types are not immune and may develop skin cancer in less obvious places like the palms, soles, or under the nails.
5. Weakened immune system, due to illness, medications (e.g., for lupus or organ transplants), or exposure to harmful substances.

Understanding Melanoma: The Most Dangerous Skin Cancer

Melanoma can appear as a new mole or arise within an existing one. Early identification is crucial. Use the ABCDE rule to monitor your moles:

• A – Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other.
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
• C – Colour: Uneven colours, including shades of black, brown, or red.
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm or growing in size.
• E – Expert: If you notice changes in a mole, consult a dermatologist immediately.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers: Signs to Watch

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• Appears as a flesh-coloured bump or scabbed patch that doesn’t heal.
• May bleed, crust over, and recur.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• More aggressive than BCC.
• Presents as a rapidly growing red lump or a scaly flat patch.

Both types often develop on sun-exposed skin but can also emerge in areas affected by scars, burns, chronic wounds, or previous radiation therapy.

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

The best skin cancer treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer, as well as how advanced it is. Common treatment methods include:

• Cryotherapy: Freezing technique to destroy cancer cells.
• Surgical excision: Removal of the cancerous tissue, sometimes using Mohs surgery for precision.
• Topical chemotherapy or immune-modulating creams: Non-invasive treatments for certain superficial cancers.
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and radiotherapy: Used in specific cases to target abnormal cells.
• Systemic chemotherapy or immunotherapy: For advanced skin cancers that have spread beyond the skin.
• Early-stage skin cancers are highly treatable – early detection is key to a positive outcome.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer in the Cayman Islands

Living in a tropical paradise means sun protection should be part of your daily routine. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:

1. Stay in the shade, especially between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm when UV radiation is strongest.
2. Wear sun-protective clothing: Wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective (UPF) clothing, and sunglasses can help shield your skin.
3. Apply sunscreen generously: Use SPF 30 or higher, with broad-spectrum protection. Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours—especially after swimming or sweating.
4. Regular skin self-checks: Look for new or changing moles, lesions, or patches.
5. Schedule annual skin checks with a dermatologist, particularly if you have risk factors or a history of sunburns.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you notice a spot that’s changing, itching, bleeding, or not healing, don’t delay—see a board-certified dermatologist for evaluation. In the Cayman Islands, you can access experienced dermatologists who offer comprehensive skin cancer screening and treatment services.

Protect Your Skin. Protect Your Life.

At Integra Healthcare, our Dermatology Team is committed to helping you stay safe in the sun while enjoying everything the Cayman Islands has to offer. Early detection saves lives. Don’t wait—book your skin check today.

This article was originally published in the Cayman Compass and written by Dr. Alison Duncan, Consultant Dermatologist at Integra Healthcare.