Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. According to the American Academy of Dermatology more than 8,500 people will be diagnosed with skin cancer each day. Melanoma is the deadliest of all skin cancers and is the most common form of cancer in young adults aged 25-29. One American dies from melanoma every hour!
How do you protect yourself and your family?
– Protect your skin from becoming tanned, burned or blistered.
– Don’t use tanning beds EVER!
– Limit your exposure to the sun and wear sunscreen every day (and not just on your face)!
– Use SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothing such as hats, shades and long sleeve shirts.
– See your dermatologist every year for a skin exam.
– If you notice a new mole or notice changes in an existing mole then tell us at your GYN exam or schedule an appointment with your dermatologist or PCP.
– Never ignore a new mole or a changing mole, especially if it is larger than a pencil eraser, has irregular borders, bleeds, has an uneven surface or if you notice more than one color.