National Skin Cancer Awareness Month 

 

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. UV radiation can also come from tanning booths or sunlamps. The most dangerous kind of skin cancer is called melanoma.

The good news? Skin cancer can almost always be cured when it's found and treated early. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to prevent skin cancer or detect it early on.

This May, spread the word about skin cancer awareness. Inform your friends and family about the importance of UV protection.  

 

Take these simple steps to protect your skin:

• Stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Put on sunscreen every 2 hours and after you swim or sweat.

• Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.

• Check your skin regularly for changes.

Scalps - If you have a lot of hair, or even a little, cancerous spots can creep up on your scalp. A good number of people forget to wear hats, or use sunscreen to protect their hair partings. Scalps face direct sunlight more than the face. Ask your hair stylist to take note of any moles, spots, or lesions that develop on your scalp, but definitely make sure your dermatologist is keeping track too!

Armpits - It is possible to develop cancers here, especially if they are traveling to lymph nodes, which is especially dangerous. Make sure you remember to protect these often forgotten areas of the body with sunscreen when you're going swimming or sleeveless in the sun!

Feet - Melanoma appeared on Bob Marley's big toe, and because he refused amputation, it spread to his lungs and brain which ultimately took his life. Do not forget to check between toes, and on the bottoms of your feet. This skin is especially sensitive, so be sure it is getting examined!

Have You Scheduled Your Annual Skin Exam?

Our Board-Certified Dermatologists and Board-Certified Physician Assistants have special training that includes the diagnosis and management of skin cancers  .

When you see us for a complete skin exam, expect a 10-20 minute visit, including a review of your medical history and a head-to-toe skin examination. This is a good time to ask about any spots you are worried about.

We can educate you about what to look for, such as any changes in the size, color, borders, or shape of a mole. Any notable change in a mole should be checked out.

A spot that your provider suspects is cancerous will be biopsied. During a biopsy, a sliver of tissue is removed for evaluation by our pathologist, who confirms (or refutes) the suspicion of cancer.

• 9.0% transparent zinc oxide

• Antioxidant protection combats skin-aging free radicals associated with ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation (IR).

• Calms and protects acne-prone skin

• Leaves no residue

• UVA/UVB sun protection

• Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic