Early detection is extremely important! The prognosis of melanomas and other skin cancers is drastically better for those whose cancer hasn’t yet spread to the lymph nodes. Often, skin cancer often develops in unusual looking moles or skin lesions. In podiatry, there are certain types of melanoma that can appear under toenails as well. A biopsy is the only way to determine whether the spot is benign or malignant.
B is for border. Look for edges that are uneven, scalloped or blurry.
C is for color. A normal mole is one color throughout. Melanomas may contain different colors or different shades of a color.
D stands for diameter. Most melanomas are ¼ inch (roughly the size of a pencil eraser) or larger.
E stands for evolving. This means that a mole or lesion is changing and could indicate malignant progression.
Tips for Prevention
1. SPF!
Putting on sunscreen or lotion with UVA and UVB protection as regularly as deodorant is a habit you will thank yourself for later.
Whatever product you choose, the sun protection factor (SPF) should be at or above 30 (97% of UVB ray protection) for long periods of sun exposure and at or above 15 (93% of UVB ray protection) for daily use. For longer outdoor activities, especially ones involving water and/or sweat, repeated application is a must. Be sure to follow reapplication directions on the label of your sun protection product. Embrace Shade and Protective Clothing
2. Know Your Own Personal Risks
Skin cancer does not discriminate, but there certainly are factors that increase a person’s risk. In addition to increased UV and UVB ray exposure, risks prove higher in individuals that suffered severe sunburns in the past, those with fairer skin and hair, those with a family history of skin cancer, prevalent moles or a weakened immune system and those living in sunny or high-altitude areas. Caucasians and men 50 years or older are at a higher risk for developing melanoma than the general population. Individuals with skin of color are more prone to skin cancer in areas less exposed to the sun, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, the groin, under the nails, as well as the inside of the mouth.
3. Regular Screenings
An essential step in skin cancer prevention is regular screenings. Dermatologists can assess and recommend how often a person needs a skin exam based off personal risk factors. It is recommended that individuals with a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers should have a full-body exam at least once a year. Another beneficial habit is monthly skin self-exams to check for new or changing moles. Approximately half of melanomas are self-detected.
Our skin is the largest organ on our body, so why wouldn’t we prioritize its health as much as other parts of our body?
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