Breaking Myths About Skin Cancer with Dr. Shaun Segal

In the case of health, misinformation may at times be more damaging than the illness itself. Skin cancer is one such field that is surrounded by myths, fallacies, and half-truths, which tend to deny people the opportunity to get a timely cure. To establish the straight record, we refer to Dr. Shaun Segal, who is a very accomplished skin cancer surgeon in Perth and has dedicated his life for more than 20 years to assisting patients in detecting, treating, and overcoming skin cancers.

Having his friendship in skin cancer surgery with the Australian College of Cutaneous Oncology (ACCO) and having experience in advanced reconstructive techniques, Dr. Segal has treated thousands of patients. It is not merely a healing cancer mission but rather a confidence-building and educating mission so that they can take charge of their skin health.

Reading this blog, Dr. Shaun Segal assists us in dispelling some of the most widespread skin cancer myths that perpetuate around to make sure that you are armed with facts to save yourself and others close to you.

Myth 1: “Only Fair-Skinned Individuals Contract Skin Cancer”

The myth of believing that only people with fair skin are in danger is one of the most dangerous ones. Although fair-skinned people are more vulnerable because they have less melanin, skin cancer may be experienced by any person, irrespective of age, skin color, and ethnicity.

Dr. Shaun Segal claims to have worked with patients of every kind. It is necessary to learn that melanin does not protect the skin; it is not a shield. Darker people are more likely to have cancers in areas that are not very noticeable, like soles, palms, or under nails, leading to late diagnosis, he says.

The fact: All people should have regular skin examinations and sunscreens regardless of their skin tone.

Myth 2: “Skin Cancer Only occurs in the elderly”

The perceptions include a myth that skin cancer only affects humans in old age. Although older people are more exposed to risk since they have developed sun exposure over time, people of younger age, such as people in their 20s and 30s, are also at risk.

Dr. Segal stresses, “I have dealt with numerous young adults with melanoma who had aggressive types. The point that is concerning is that they did not think they could be put in danger. The earliest habits, such as tanning frequently or forgetting to wear sunscreen, are common causes of such cases.

The fact: Age is no longer a discriminant factor against skin cancer. Early detection and prevention are required in all walks of life.

Myth 3: “If It Doesn’t Hurt, It’s Not Skin Cancer”

Suffering is not the most efficient measure of cancer. Most types of skin cancer are silent at the outset and manifest as painless moles, spots, or patches that evolve with time. The process of waiting until one feels uncomfortable may postpone diagnosis and aggravate the condition.

According to Dr. Segal, skin cancer on sensitive parts of the skin, such as the nose, lips, and eyelids, usually begins small and is not painful, but it can become complicated when not addressed. The fact that one has no pain does not imply that there is no danger, he cautions.

The reality: Skin check and visual change noticing are much more effective than pain waiting.

Myth 4: “Translation: A Mole That is Normal Cannot be Skin Cancer”

There is a widespread opinion that dark, irregular moles are the only indication of a problem. As a matter of fact, skin cancer may be of numerous types: they may look like a red spot, a pearly bump, a scaly part, or even a non-healing sore.

Dr. Shaun Segal clarifies that malignancies may arise like benign skin diseases. I have witnessed instances when patients had assumed that it was a rash or scar, only to realize that it was an early cancer. It is imperative to train the eye to notice minute differences.

The fact: Not every skin cancer appears equal. Any new or shifting spot should be considered.

Myth 5: “When Removed, Skin Cancer Can Never Return.”

Removal of skin cancer through a surgical procedure works very well, and the assumption that skin cancer is a single problem is a fallacy. Individuals who have undergone a single skin cancer are more susceptible to acquiring another skin cancer either in the same area or any other area of the body.

Dr. Shaun Segal emphasizes the significance of the follow-up: Long-term care is an essential component of our business. It seems we have cleared a lesion, but just because we have cleared a lesion does not mean that we have won the war. Continuing to supervise and change the lifestyle form is crucial.

The fact: Even successful treatment should be followed by regular follow-ups and preventive measures.

Myth 6: “Sun-Exposed Areas Only Are at Risk.”

Although indeed, those areas that are usually exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and shoulders, are most susceptible, cancer of the skin can be produced in any part of the body. Even the less evident places like the head, under nails, between feet, and even the genitals are prone to cancer.

Dr. Segal supplements, surgery on skin cancer becomes complicated when the cancers grow in obscure or sensitive regions. This is the reason why in-depth skin checkups, as opposed to informal self-examinations, are essential.

The fact: It is possible to have issues with all body parts, and full examinations and tests by an expert are crucial.

Myth 7: “Tanning Beds are Safer than the Sun.”

Most individuals have mistaken the notion that tanning beds provide a safer and more controlled means of tanning than natural sunlight. The reality is that the UV radiation emitted by the tanning beds is as dangerous, in fact, more dangerous than the direct sun radiation.

Dr. Segal shares his experience with some of the youngest melanoma patients, whom he treated as being fans of the tanning beds. The man-made UV radiation is also high and can cause skin cancers at a high rate.

The reality: No such thing as a safe tan. It is much more appealing to take care of your skin than ruin it.

Myth 8: “Skin Cancer Isn’t Deadly”

People consider skin cancer not to be a big issue like other forms of cancer. Although some types of melanoma, such as basal cell carcinoma, are not very aggressive, some are life-threatening unless detected early enough.

Dr. Segal emphasizes that the good news is that with early diagnosis, the survival chances are very high. However, when not treated, skin cancers, in particular, melanoma, can be transmitted to other organs.

The fact: Skin cancer may be fatal, but the sooner it is identified, the better.

The Way Dr. Shaun Segal Offers Professional Care.

At Skin Cancer Only, which is part of the Baby Steps Specialist Center in Subiaco, Perth, Dr. Shaun Segal provides skin cancer treatment as a one-stop center, which includes the process of detecting, surgically treating the cancer, and the follow-up treatment. His skills in high-level reconstructive surgery enable him to cure cancers in difficult locations like the nose, lips, ears, and eyelids with high-level flaps and grafting techniques to rebuild the functions and the look.

Having more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Segal is sure that education is as important as treatment. He dismantles myths and creates awareness to enable patients to manage their skin health.

Final Thoughts

Misinformation may slow down treatment, create needless anxiety of result in negligence. With the help of such experts as Dr. Shaun Segal, patients in Perth can receive qualified help and new treatment opportunities concerning skin cancer.

The biggest takeaway? Never take anything you hear. Cover your skin, have frequent examinations and in case you see anything abnormal, seek the services of a specialist. According to Dr. Segal, as far as skin cancers are concerned, early action and knowledge are your best defense.