May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time to remind ourselves about the importance of protecting our skin and being vigilant about potential changes. As your physician, Dr. Dante Beretta, I want to share some essential tips to help you stay safe, understand what to watch for, and know how often you should get your skin checked.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but the good news is that it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. Let’s dive into how you can take control of your skin health.
Sun Safety: Your Daily Defense
The sun is the primary culprit behind most skin cancers. Here’s how to minimize your exposure and protect yourself:
Sunscreen is Your Best Friend: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
Seek Shade Strategically: Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or buildings.
Cover Up: Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for added protection.
Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that significantly increases your risk of skin cancer. There’s no such thing as a “safe tan” from a tanning bed.
What to Watch For: The ABCDEs of Melanoma
Regular self-exams are crucial for early detection. Familiarize yourself with the ABCDEs of melanoma, a helpful guide for identifying potentially cancerous moles:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other half.
B – Border: The edges of the mole are irregular, blurred, or notched.
C – Color: The mole has uneven colors, such as shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
D – Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
E – Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation, or is experiencing new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.
Beyond the ABCDEs:
Don’t just focus on moles. Be aware of any new or changing spots, sores that don’t heal, or any unusual skin growths. If you notice anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor.
How Often Should You Get Your Skin Checked?
The frequency of professional skin exams depends on your individual risk factors. Here’s a general guideline:
Low Risk: If you have no personal or family history of skin cancer, and few moles, an annual skin exam may be sufficient.
Moderate Risk: If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or a history of significant sun exposure, you should consider getting a skin exam every six months to a year.
High Risk: If you have a history of melanoma, a weakened immune system, or genetic predispositions, your doctor may recommend more frequent skin exams.
Take Action Today!
This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I urge you to prioritize your skin health. Start by incorporating sun-safe practices into your daily routine, performing regular self-exams, and scheduling a professional skin exam with your doctor. Early detection is key to successful treatment and a healthier future.
If you have any concerns about your skin or would like to schedule a skin exam, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment with myself, or our other providers at CHI St. Joseph’s Health Clinic. Call 218-616-3900 and let’s work together to protect your skin and keep you healthy!
Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!