May Is National Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month
We are in the middle of Skin Canacer Awareness Month and here at Alaska Family Dermatology we want to remind you the importance of skin protection. Melanoma, as well as basal and squamous cell carcinomas, is the most common of all cancer types. With over 5 million cases in the United States, this cancer has a big impact on our lives, but is also the most preventable. The American Cancer Society estimates that in the United States this year there are 6,850 deaths from melanoma and 100,350 new cases. Skin cancer does not discriminate based on age, ethnicity, or gender, and can attack various parts of the body.
The rate of melanoma has been growing the past few decades.
Overall melanoma is more common in men, but higher in women before the age of 50. Risk factors that can increase chances of developing skin cancer include: long exposure to the sun without sunscreen, indoor tanning devices, irregular shaped moles, lighter skin and many more.
Things to Look For
The earlier skin cancer can be detected and treated, the greater the odds of survival. We encourage you to schedule a visit if you experience any of the following:
- any change in the size, color, shape, or texture of a mole or other skin growth
- an open or inflamed skin wound that is slow to heal melanoma is particularly dangerous and patients should be mindful to observe:
- a change in an existing mole
- a small, dark, multi-colored spot with irregular borders, either elevated or flat, that may bleed and form a scab
- a cluster of shiny, firm, dark bumps
- a mole larger than a pencil eraser
These symptoms can be remembered as the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, irregular Borders, changes in Color, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolution of a mole’s characteristics (including size, shape, color, elevation, bleeding, itching, and/or crusting).
Contact us immediately if you suspect skin cancer. A visit to a dermatologist regularly if you are at risk is advised. We can also recommend skin protection products.
