“Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. When spotted early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Early detection starts with you!”
May is National Skin Cancer awareness month. DEFEND! CATCH! TAKE ACTION! Knowing early signs of detection can be the difference between life and death. Here is where to begin:
- Perform Regular Skin Cancer Exams on yourself and loved one’s by checking your partner’s skin and taking note of all the spots on the body, from moles to freckles to age spots.
- Catch Suspicious Spots by using the ABCDEs of Melanoma.4
- A – Asymmetry – one half is unlike the other.
- B – Border – Irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border.
- C – Color – Varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown or black; sometimes white, red or blue.
- D – Diameter – While melanomas are typically greater than 6mm ( the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
- E – Evolving – A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color.
- If you notice any new or suspicious spots on your skin or any spots that are changing, itching or bleeding. Take Action! Make an appointment with a board -certified dermatologist.
- Apply Sunscreen! The American Academy of Dermatology recommends consumers choose a sunscreen that states the following on the label:
- Broad Spectrum – Protects the skin from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, both of which can cause cancer.
- SPF 30 or Higher – how well a sunscreen protects you from sunburn.
- Water Resistant or Very Water Resistant – for up to 40-80 minutes. Sunscreens are not waterproof or sweat-proof and need to be reapplied.
https://www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer/programs/skin-cancer-awareness-month#be-a-hero
