Nearly 100 cases of skin cancer were diagnosed in the country during the period 2024-2025according to data from Dermatological Institute and Skin Surgery Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz (IDCP-DHBD), a figure that reflects the silent advance of this disease in the Dominican population.
The doctor Luisa González de Bogaertdermatologist surgeon and medical director of the Dr. Huberto Bogaert Skin Clinic, warned that the skin cancer does not discriminate against age, social status or lifestyle, and in many cases it develops no symptoms visible until reaching advanced stages.
“In recent decades we have seen a significant increase of cases. Many times patients arrive when the disease is already advanced, and that completely changes the panorama of the treatment“explained the specialist, who has more than 40 years of experience.
Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection continues to be the main cause of skin cancer. The ultraviolet rays cause damage to the DNA of skin cells, which can lead to melanoma and other types of cancer, especially when combined with genetic factors such as family history or the presence of multiple moles.
He tropical climate of the Dominican Republic, with ultraviolet radiation intense throughout the year, increases the risk for the population, although the lack of awareness persists about the importance of sun protection daily.
Importance of early detection and prevention
González de Bogaert, distinguished as Master of Ibero-Latin American Dermatology by the Ibero-Latin American College of Dermatology (CILAD), emphasized that early detection It can mean more than 90% chance of cure.
As encouraging information, the doctor highlighted that all diagnosed patients in the period 2024-2025 were treated successfully, thanks to the timely detection.
“The early detection save lives“he stated.
since 38 yearsGonzález de Bogaert directs the Department of Dermatological Surgery of the IDCP-DHBD and assured that many of the cases treated in 2024 could have had a better outcome thanks to the preventive checkups.
“The fur It is the largest organ in the body and reflects our internal health. Many silent diseases They manifest themselves there, but they go unnoticed until it is too late,” added the specialist.
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Go to the dermatologist at least once a year
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Monthly review of the skin following the ABCDE rule (asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolution)
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Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen greater than 30 SPF
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Avoid sun exposure between 10:00 in the morning and 4:00 in the afternoon
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Protect yourself with appropriate clothing
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Use accessories with UV filter
