Skin Cancer...is no joke!

It’s summer time!! What does that mean!? Pools, BBQ’s, and beach vacations! Cover up that skin and have fun!! Skin cancer is no joke! Skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer. Did you know that 9,500 Americans are diagnosed every day with skin cancer!? Research estimates that non-melanoma skin cancer affects 3 million Americans a year.

Early detection of skin cancer can help reduce the spread of it on your body. What should you look for? Think about your ABC’s! Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving.

Asymmetry—One part of the mole or birth mark doesn’t match the other side.

Border—The edges are irregular, or blurred.

Color—The color is not the same all over, may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or even blue.

Diameter—The spot is larger than a ¼ of an inch across, about the size of a pencil eraser. Evolving—It’s changing shape, color, or size. Prevention Avoiding tanning beds! UV light is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers.

The American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to stay out of indoor tanning beds. You should also protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher, and by seeking shade!

These can all reduce cancers of the skin. Also, severe sunburns during childhood may increase one’s risk of melanoma, so children should be protected from the sun! Screenings Skin screenings every year can help detect skin cancer at an early stage! Dr. Manley or Katie Keller, NP will screen you and they will ask when the mark first appeared, if the appearance has changed, if it’s painful or itchy, and if it bleeds. Then they will go over family medical history, and any other risk factors. You can do monthly skin screenings on yourself, just remember your ABC’s, and if you are ever concerned do not hesitate to call! It’s always better to be safe then sorry! Call and schedule today! Call us at Déjà Vu Skin & Health Center (812) 490-SKIN (7546) for an appointment and enjoy the summer!