Hugh Jackman, one of the sexiest and most talented actors of our times, has skin cancer. He was recently brave enough to post the picture you see here to his Instagram account announcing that he just discovered he has basal cell carcinoma. And he found out thanks to his concerned wife who was the one who convinced him to go get a mark he had on his nose checked out. The Oscar nominee's skin cancer was successfully treated and removed … but do you even know what basal cell carcinoma is and how to check for it?
Read more ¿Qué más?: Amy Robach's shocking cancer diagnosis could save your life
Here are 5 things you should know about skin cancer, how to prevent it and how to check for it:
1. For starters, you should know that basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer today. Although it won't kill you, it can disfigure or destroy your skin and the tissue around it.
2. You're at high risk if you have light or red hair, light-colored eyes and/or skin, freckles, or moles. Also if you use tanning beds regularly, got sunburned a lot when you were young and if there's a history of skin cancer in your family.
3. You should examine your own skin every month and you should be on the lookout for any new moles and any changes in existing moles.
4. Changes can include any of the following: asymmetry, irregular border, color and increase in size. If you detect any of these, don't hesitate to get professional help as soon as possible.
5. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that protects against UVA too. Put on more than you think you actually need. Reapply it every hour, particularly if you go swimming. Try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the rays are strongest.
Image via Hugh Jackman/Instagram
