May: Melanoma Awareness Month!

Melanoma Awareness Month

Donut…. Let me catch you doing this!

 

 

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again- stop tanning. Please? With the month of May being Melanoma Awareness Month, being a skin care therapist, and soon-to-be nurse I feel a responsibility to remind you that sun exposure is the number one cause of premature aging, and most importantly, skin cancer.

Regular skin checks (approximately every six months), wearing protective clothing and spf, and avoiding UV exposure is so important- especially in sunnier climates, like Arizona. With one of the highest rankings for skin cancer in the world, it is crucial to be on top of having your skin examined by your dermatologist. Although skin cancer is terrifying, and dangerous, it is one of the most treatable forms of cancer- when you catch it early. This is not a scare tactic, but rather a means to motivate your duty in being proactive.  

In addition to having your 6 month check-up, keep your self-awareness high by noting changes in your body. What exactly are you looking in terms of warning signs when it comes to Melanoma? Just remember your A,B,C, D, & E’s. Should you notice a mole that may look different, or is even new, take note to the following:

A-     Asymmetry:  A benign (cancer-free mole) will not be asymmetrical. Meaning, if you draw a line straight through the middle, it will look the same on both sides.

B-      Border: A benign mole will have a smooth border. Often times cancerous lesions will have nodule-like borders that are raised and/or bumpy.

C-      Color: Is your mole the same color all the way through? Most benign moles have the same color throughout (a shade of light brown). Cancerous markings are often multi-colored and even sometimes black.

D-     Diameter: If  your mole is larger than the tip of a pencil eraser, it may be cause for concern. Often times the larger the mole, the more dangerous it is.

E-      Evolution: Is your mole changing in size, and or color? Is it growing? Non-cancerous lesions usually stay the same size and are not noticeably larger in size as time passes. 

Although Arizona is one of the most risky states to reside when it comes to skin cancer, it is also one of the best places to find quality physicians that know what to look for, and how to treat you successfully- a few recommendations are listed below. Committing to your skin is a further commitment to your health! Take care of your body, and it will take care of you. Questions? Comments? Please list them below- I’m happy to help!

Provider Recommendations:

Linder Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery Center:  Jennifer Linder, M.D., PLLC and Cynthia Price, M.D., FAAD, PAAD

Skin & Cancer Center of Arizona: Annie C. Sullivan, MMS, PA-C

Camelback Dermatology & Skin Surgery: Kristine A. Romine, M.D.

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser: Sarah Neumann, MMS-PA-C

Be well,

Annabelle