Summer is a good time to evaluate your risks, amp up prevention & learn about early detection.
You're at the beach, at the pool, gardening or just driving in the car with your arm resting on the open window... sun exposure is unavoidable. Knowing how to protect yourself and your family, understanding risk factors and early prevention is key. Wilkes Family Medicine is committed to bringing you health and safety education.
Dr. Wilkes' top three skin cancer prevention tips:
- Use Sunscreen - Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen half an hour before going into the sun. Reapply every 1 - 2 hours, even if you are not swimming. Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA/UVB rays. Sunscreen isn't just for summer. Remember, sports, school recess and hobbies keep us in the sun year-round.
*Extra protection: block the sun by using a hat, swim shirt or sun shade.
- Reduce Risk Factors - Some factors can't be avoided but knowing what they are can alert you to your increased risk and may motivate you to be diligent about protection and early detection.
These factors increase your risk for skin cancer:
- Age 40+
- Male
- Fair skin
- higher than average exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation - such as indoor tanning
- High mole count, particularly on the arms
- Personal or family history with skin cancer
- Smoking
- Exposure to chemicals or radiation
- Certain medical conditions or treatments that affect your immune system
- The ABC's of Evaluating Moles - Dr. Wilkes can perform an annual "mole check" for you. However, it is also important that you be alert and come in immediately if you suspect a mole to show any abnormality. Here's what to look for:
A is for Asymmetry - Referring to whether the mole is uniform in appearance.. If one half does not match the other half it could signal a problem.
B is for Border - The border of a mole should be smooth and distinct. If it appears ragged, uneven or blurry you should have it checked by a physician.
C is for Color - A normal mole is one color throughout. Melanomas may contain different colors or different shads of a color.
D is for Diameter - A mole's diameter shouldn't exceed that of a pencil eraser. Be sure to ask Dr. Wilkes about any moles that appear to be bigger than this diameter.
E is for Elevation - A normal, healthy mole shouldn't be changing. Look for changes in all of the above and the elevation of the mole from the skin. Other changes to alert your doctor about include bleeding, crusting, itching or any other new symptom.
Dr. Wilkes is trained to perform shave and excisional biopsies for moles determined to be of concern. Do not put off prevention and detection, it could save your life!
