Prevention. There are factors that can cause anyone to develop squamous cell carcinoma of the skin that is genetic and not a result of environmental factors. However, most often, this type of skin cancer is the result of skin damage from cumulative sunburns and or excessive tanning bed use. Aside from staying out of the sun completely, avoiding the sun during peak hours of ten in the morning to 4 in the afternoon may help reduce the chances of developing skin cancer. Covering as much skin as possible with clothing and wearing a broad-brimmed hat may also help. Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen religiously that has an SPF of at least 30 on any regions of the skin that are not covered by clothing. Not using tanning beds at all can also decrease the risk of developing skin cancer. Frequent skin examinations for changes in existing moles, freckles, and birthmarks in addition to checking for any new skin growths can help with early detection.
