LOC10:55
07:55 GMT
KUWAIT, July 15 (KUNA) -- Kuwait's Cancer Awareness Nation (CAN) warned on Tuesday that excessive, direct sun exposure in summer sharply increases the risk of skin cancer, urging preventive habits and regular skin checks.
Launching CAN's "Safe Under the Sun" drive, Oncologist and KAN Chairman Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh noted that skin cancer is among the world's most common cancers, yet many cases can be prevented or caught early, increasing survival rate.
Official 2020 data showed 24 skin cancer cases in Kuwait --7.3 percent of all cancers-- eight in Kuwaitis and 16 in non-Kuwaitis, Al-Saleh said.
Early warning signs include new moles or spots, changes in existing moles, and non healing sores or scaly patches, he explained.
KAN advises using sunscreen, avoiding peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and performing regular self or clinical skin exams, he emphasized.
Treatments vary by type and stage, from local surgery, cryotherapy, and laser procedures to modern immunotherapies and medications, he mentioned.
The campaign will distribute educational materials and hold awareness events in malls with the Health Ministry and other partners, Al-Saleh pointed out. (end)
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