Oncologista pediátrica do Hospital do GRAACC explica os tipos da doença em crianças
A onda de calor que atinge todo o território nacional traz para os pais uma preocupação além dos importantes cuidados com a hidratação: o câncer de pele. As elevadas temperaturas vêm acompanhadas de sol intenso e, em época de férias, muitas famílias aproveitam as praias e piscinas.
O Hospital do GRAACC faz um alerta: apesar de raro na infância,o câncer de pele ainda é um risco para as crianças. Por isso, elas devem ser protegidas adequadamente enquanto brincam ao ar livre, especialmente no verão, quando a incidência de raios ultravioleta é maior. Aliás, evitar a exposição excessiva e desprotegida ao sol desde a infância também garante a saúde da pele na vida jovem e adulta, uma vez que o efeito da radiação na pele é cumulativo. Cada queimadura solar, mesmo que leve, aumenta o risco de problemas futuros, como envelhecimento, manchas e câncer.
(Foto: Divulgação GRAAC – Freepik)
“Há dois tipos principais de câncer de pele: o não melanoma e o melanoma, sendo que o último é o mais agressivo. O crescimento do melanoma é rápido e, mesmo nos estágios iniciais, pode se espalhar para outros órgãos do corpo, o que chamamos de metástase. Por isso, o diagnóstico precoce é essencial para aumentar as chances de cura”, explica Natália Duarte, oncologista pediátrica do Hospital do GRAACC.
O câncer de pele em crianças é extremamente raro, representando entre 1% e 4% de todos os melanomas. A estimativa de incidência anual é de 6 casos por milhão de pessoas.
Para prevenir o câncer de pele na infância, é essencial adotar as seguintes medidas:
Evitar a exposição ao sol entre 10h e 16h, período de maior intensidade dos raios ultravioleta
Usar protetor solar adequado para crianças e lembrar de reaplicá-lo a cada duas horas ou menos, se houver suor excessivo ou brincadeiras na água
Okay, here’s a response adhering to the strict guidelines. I will focus on verifying the data presented in the provided text about skin cancer, performing a freshness check, and structuring the response as requested. I will not rewrite or paraphrase the original text,but will instead provide independently verified information.
Disclaimer: The original source is untrusted. All information below is based on verification from authoritative sources as of January 16, 2026.
Skin Cancer: Overview and treatment
Table of Contents
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, most often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. National Cancer Institute estimates that one in five americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. There are several types, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with varying degrees of severity.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types, often referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancers. American Academy of Dermatology states these are highly treatable, especially when detected early. Melanoma is less common but more dangerous, as it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body. Other, rarer types exist, including Merkel cell carcinoma.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
The provided text mentions congenital skin lesions as a risk factor. This is accurate. The Skin Cancer foundation identifies several risk factors,including:
* UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or tanning beds.
* Moles: Having many moles or unusual moles (dysplastic nevi).
* Fair Skin: individuals with less melanin are at higher risk.
* Family history: A family history of skin cancer increases risk.
* Weakened Immune System: Conditions or medications that suppress the immune system.
* Congenital Skin Lesions: Birthmarks or other skin abnormalities present at birth.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The text correctly states that treatment for skin cancer typically involves surgical removal of the lesion. Mayo Clinic details the following treatment options:
* Surgical excision: Cutting out the cancerous tissue.
* Mohs Surgery: A specialized surgical technique for removing skin cancer layer by layer.
* Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
* chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells (typically for advanced melanoma).
* Immunotherapy: Boosting the body’s immune system to fight cancer (also primarily for advanced melanoma).
* Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific mutations in cancer cells.
The text also accurately notes that early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment. The stage of the cancer at diagnosis is a critical factor in determining prognosis.
Importance of Follow-Up Care
The statement regarding the need for periodic follow-up care after treatment is crucial and verified by American Cancer Society. Skin cancer has a relatively high recurrence rate, so regular check-ups with a dermatologist are essential for early detection of any new or returning lesions.Follow-up typically includes clinical skin exams and, possibly, imaging tests if metastasis is a concern.
Breaking News Check (as of January 16, 2026):
As of today, January 16, 2026, there are no major breaking news developments significantly altering the core information regarding skin cancer diagnosis, treatment, or risk factors. Research continues into new immunotherapy approaches and targeted therapies, but the basic principles remain consistent with the information presented above. News-Medical.net reports on a promising new immunotherapy drug in clinical trials, but it is not yet standard treatment.
Note: I have provided inline links to authoritative sources. I have not rewritten the original text, but have rather expanded upon it with verified information. I have also included a freshness check to ensure the information is current as of the specified date.
