Why Somerset West Doctors Are So Focused on Skin Cancer

Living in Somerset West is a dream for many of us. With the Helderberg mountains as our backdrop, the sandy beaches of Strand just a short walk away, and the endless sunshine that defines the Western Cape, it’s easy to see why we love calling this place home. But as much as we adore our sunny lifestyle, it comes with a hidden risk: skin cancer. At Helderberg Family Practice, Dr. Deidré Reed and Dr. Rinky Vamvadelis are particularly focused on skin cancer prevention and early detection—and for good reason. From the deceptive nature of cloudy days to the high UV levels in our region, skin cancer is a serious concern for our community. Let’s explore why Somerset West doctors are so vigilant about this disease, what they do when they spot something suspicious, and how you can protect yourself, especially if you’re at higher risk.

Sun, Sand, and Skin Cancer: A Somerset West Reality

Somerset West is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at Strand Beach, picnicking at Vergelegen Estate, or hiking in the Helderberg Nature Reserve, the sunshine is a big part of what makes our area so special. But with that sunshine comes a significant health risk: skin cancer. South Africa has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, largely due to our proximity to the equator and the intense UV radiation we experience year-round. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), skin cancer is the most common cancer in the country, with melanoma—the deadliest form—being a particular concern.

The beach lifestyle in Somerset West only adds to the risk. Long days spent swimming, surfing, or simply lounging by the ocean expose our skin to harmful UV rays, which can damage DNA in skin cells and lead to cancerous growths over time. Even a single severe sunburn, especially in childhood, can double your risk of melanoma later in life. For those of us who grew up building sandcastles on Strand Beach or playing cricket in the sun, that risk might already be part of our story. That’s why doctors in Somerset West, including our team at Helderberg Family Practice, are so focused on educating our community about skin cancer prevention and early detection.

Cloudy Days: A Deceptive Danger

Here’s where things get tricky: Somerset West isn’t always sunny. We have our fair share of cloudy days, especially in winter, and it’s easy to think that a lack of sunshine means you’re safe from UV damage. But that’s a dangerous myth. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, meaning you’re still at risk even when the sky looks overcast. In fact, clouds can sometimes amplify UV exposure by reflecting rays back toward the ground, increasing your risk without you even realizing it.

This deceptive nature of cloudy days is a big reason why Somerset West doctors are so focused on skin cancer awareness. You might head out for a walk along the Lourens River or a coffee at the Somerset Mall without a second thought about sunscreen, only to come home with a sunburn—or worse, unnoticed UV damage. That’s why we always recommend wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days. Apply about 30 ml (a shot glass full) to cover your whole body, and reapply every two hours if you’re outside for long. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing can also go a long way in keeping your skin safe, no matter the weather.

What Your GP Does When They Spot Something Suspicious

At Helderberg Family Practice, checking for signs of skin cancer is a routine part of our care. During your visit, Dr. Deidré Reed or Dr. Rinky Vamvadelis might ask about your sun exposure history and take a close look at your skin, especially if you’ve noticed any changes. We’re trained to spot the ABCDEs of melanoma, a handy guide to identify suspicious moles or spots:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
• Border: The edges are irregular or jagged.
• Color: The color varies, with shades of brown, black, or other hues.
• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can be smaller.
• Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color over time.

If we see something suspicious, we’ll take action right away. First, we’ll document the spot with photos and measurements to track any changes. Then, depending on the level of concern, we might recommend a biopsy—a simple procedure where a small sample of the spot is removed and sent to a lab for testing. In Somerset West, we’re fortunate to be close to Vergelegen Hospital, where we can refer you for this procedure if needed. If the biopsy confirms skin cancer, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan, which might involve surgery, radiation, or a referral to an oncologist for more advanced cases.

Early detection is key with skin cancer. When caught early, most skin cancers, including melanoma, are highly treatable. That’s why we’re so thorough about checking your skin—it could literally save your life.

Higher Risk? Why You Should See a Dermatologist Annually

Some people are at higher risk for skin cancer and need extra vigilance. You might be at higher risk if you have:

• Fair Skin: People with light skin, freckles, or red hair are more prone to UV damage because they have less melanin, the pigment that protects against UV rays.
• Family History: If a close relative has had skin cancer, your risk is higher due to shared genetics.
• History of Sunburns: Multiple or severe sunburns, especially in childhood, increase your risk.
• Many Moles: Having more than 50 moles, or any atypical (unusual) moles, puts you at greater risk.
• Outdoor Lifestyle: If you spend a lot of time in the sun—like many of us do in Somerset West—you’re more exposed to UV radiation.

If you fall into any of these categories, we strongly recommend seeing a dermatologist once a year for a full skin exam. A dermatologist is a skin specialist who can provide a more detailed assessment than a GP, using tools like dermoscopy (a magnifying device) to examine your skin closely. They can also perform mole mapping, a preventive tool that’s especially helpful for high-risk individuals.

What Is Mole Mapping, and Why Does It Matter?

Mole mapping is a non-invasive process that helps track changes in your skin over time. During a mole mapping session, a dermatologist takes high-resolution photos of your skin, focusing on areas with moles or other marks. These images are stored and used as a baseline for future visits. If a mole changes in size, shape, or color, the dermatologist can compare it to the original photos to determine if it’s concerning. This is particularly useful for catching melanoma early, as even small changes can be a sign of cancer.

In Somerset West, where our outdoor lifestyle puts us at higher risk, mole mapping can be a game-changer. It’s especially recommended if you have a lot of moles, a history of skin cancer, or a family history of melanoma. While Helderberg Family Practice can perform basic skin checks, a dermatologist’s expertise and technology, like mole mapping, offer an extra layer of protection. We can refer you to a trusted dermatologist in the area to get started.

Protecting Your Skin in Somerset West

Skin cancer is a real concern in Somerset West, but the good news is that it’s largely preventable. Here are a few tips to keep your skin safe:

• Wear Sunscreen Daily: Use SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours if you’re outside.
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
• Cover Up: Wear hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves when possible.
• Check Your Skin: Do a monthly self-exam to look for new or changing spots, and let us know if you notice anything unusual.

At Helderberg Family Practice, we’re here to help you stay on top of your skin health. Dr. Deidré Reed and Dr. Rinky Vamvadelis are passionate about keeping our community safe from skin cancer, whether it’s through education, routine checks, or referrals to specialists. If you’re concerned about your risk or just want to learn more about protecting your skin, we’d love to see you. Let’s work together to keep your skin—and your whole self—healthy in sunny Somerset West!