Skin cancer is the most common malignancy in the United States.
1 out of 4 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
Risk Factors Include:
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or Indoor tanning
History of sunburn
Skin type: Fair skin, blue eyes with blonde or red hair have the highest risk
Previous history of skin cancer- 40% of those diagnosed with skin cancer will go on to develop additional skin cancers
Family history of Melanoma
History of Atypical Moles or more than 50 moles on the body
History of organ transplant
Some medications can increase your risk of skin cancer
A clinical skin exam can lead to early diagnosis, making skin cancer easier to treat. Who needs a skin exam?
Frequent sun exposure through work of leisure
Fair skin, light colored eyes, natural blond or redhead
Skin that burns easily-History of sunburn
Age 35 and older-every 2 years
Personal history of skin cancer/melanoma–every 6-12 months
Family history of melanoma-every 12 months
More than 50 moles-every 12 months
Schedule right away if you have:
A spot on your skin that oozes, bleeds or crusts
A painful mole
A sore that doesn’t heal
A shiny, pink, red or pearly bump
A mole with irregular borders, shape, color or changes
How to prepare for your skin exam:
Perform a self exam and make a note of any new, changing or unusual spots
Remove nail polish
Wear hair loose
Remove make-up
References
Skin Cancer Foundation- www.skincancer.org
US National Library of Medicine/National Institutes of Health- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov