May is Skin Cancer & Melanoma Awareness Month!
Early detection is key. Have you scheduled your full-body skin exam?
Did you know?
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70
- Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma
- When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%
What to do to protect yourself against skin cancer
- Always stay on top of your regular full-body skin exams! As dermatology professionals, we are trained to know what to look for.
- Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Rain or shine, summer, or winter, it is important to protect your skin year-round with an SPF 30 or higher.
- Pay close attention to your skin and make sure to call us if you notice anything new or changing, or if you have a mole that itches or bleeds. You
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Seek shade when possible and wear protective clothing in the sun.
Check your skin at home between visits!
More about Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, melanoma is characterized as an abnormal uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells.
Melanoma can grow within an existing mole slowly over time, or it can appear suddenly on the skin. The good news is that melanoma is highly treatable when detected early, however, it can be dangerous if left undetected. Advanced melanoma can spread to the lymph nodes and internal organs.