May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

April showers bring May flowers! We have made it to the sunny summer months, and with May being skin cancer awareness month, we want to give a brief overview on skin cancer. First off, there are different types of skin cancer. Melanoma, being the most dangerous form, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Though squamous and basal cells are non-melanoma type skin cancers, did you know that skin cancer is America’s most common cancer? Melanoma rates in the United States have nearly doubled from 1988 to 2019. While this might sound alarming, skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and can be cured if caught early. 

Melanoma is a very aggressive form of skin cancer and it is beneficial to know the ABCDE’s of the skin cancer. The ABCDE’s include A - for asymmetry, B - for border irregularity, C - for change in color, D - for diameter, and E - for evolution. The most important sign to keep a lookout for is evolution, meaning a change in the lesion. This could include itching, scabbing or bleeding. Since melanoma has a higher likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body and invading nearby tissue, knowing the ABCDE’s can be applied by individuals on themselves to check for changes in moles. 

Although it is never too late to reduce your risk of skin cancer, skin cancer is usually the result of previous sun damage overtime, previous blistering sunburns, and even tanning beds. In addition, people who have a fair skin tone, light eyes, and lighter hair have a higher risk of getting melanoma. People do not often assume to check their nails, but melanoma can present as a vertical dark streak on your nail, which can easily be mistaken for a blood blister. In addition, if you notice a mole on the sole of your foot or palm of your hand, this should also be examined by your provider, especially if the mole is changing. Another less-known location of melanoma is inside the mucous membranes. This includes the inside of your cheek, nasal cavity, anal region, and vagina. While only 20-30% of melanomas are found in existing moles, 70-80% arise on previous normal-looking skin.

Sharing facts about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure and encouraging individuals to check their skin for warning signs can help save lives. Everyone should be educated on proper sun protection and performing individual skin exams as skin cancer affects all ethnicities and skin tones. Schedule your annual skin check exam with your dermatologist ASAP!

Reference: https://www.skincancer.org/get-involved/skin-cancer-awareness-month/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7uzlwaHG9wIVF4nICh1IYgccEAAYAiAAEgJRmfD_BwE