The Skinny on Skin Cancer: Know The Warning Signs for the Most Common Type of Cancer (4pg)

The Skinny on Skin Cancer
Know The Warning Signs for the Most Common Type of Cancer

What do you think your chances are of having skin cancer? 10 percent? 20 percent? Consider this startling fact: If you are fair skinned and over 55, there’s a 50 percent chance you will develop skin cancer in your lifetime.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, accounting for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, more than two million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States. In addition, about 68,000 malignant melanomas, the most serious type of skin cancer, are also diagnosed each year, and they are responsible for 75 percent of skin cancer deaths. Because melanoma is the fastest growing, early detection is critical. Fortunately, most skin cancers are non- melanoma, and if treated and detected early, have a very high cure rate. Saving Your Life Is As Easy As ABCDE

With skin cancer being so common, it’s important to know how to detect it. Check once a month for any changes to your skin. Watch for moles that have any of the following signs. Just remember ABCDE: Asymmetric: An irregular shape, Border: A ragged or blurred edge. Color: Several shades of color. Diameter: Moles larger than the size of a pencil eraser. Elevation: Moles that are raised from the skin. In addition, you may want to make an appointment once a year to have your dermatologist check your skin. For help in finding a dermatologist, or for more information on skin cancer screenings, contact us today. How To Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer

Use a generous amount of sun screen (SPF 15 or higher) on exposed skin, even on a cloudy day. Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the ultraviolet rays are most intense. Wear a hat and sunglasses, and stay away from tanning beds and sun lamps.

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