Skin Cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in the United States, affecting more than 1 million new people every year.
The most common skin cancers – basal cell and squamous cell – often take the form of a pale, wax-like, pearly nodule, a red scaly, sharply outlined patch, or a sore that does not heal. Another form of skin cancer – melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) – often starts as a small, mole-like growth.
Remember The ABCD Rule for Early Detection of Melanoma
Almost everyone has moles. The vast majority of moles are perfectly harmless. A change in a mole’s appearance is a sign that you should see your doctor. Here is the simple ABCD rule to help you remember the important signs of melanoma and other skin cancers:
- A is for ASYMMETRY: One-half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.
- B is for BORDER: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- C is for COLOR: The color is not the same all over, but may have differing shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of red, white, or blue.
- D is for DIAMETER: The area is larger than 6 millimeters (about ¼ inch -- the size of a pencil eraser) or is growing larger.
Other important signs of melanoma include changes in size, shape, or color of a mole or the appearance of a new spot. Some melanomas do not fit the ABCD rule described above, so it is particularly important for you to be aware of changes in skin lesions or a new skin lesion.
(Information provided via www.cancer.org a service of the American Cancer Society)
Reducing your exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a large step in the prevention of skin cancer. This step can be one of the easiest lifestyle changes you can ever make. The saying ‘Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap’ above describes the basic idea. Make sure to cover your skin from excessive exposure to the sun by "slipping" on a shirt. "Slap" on a wide brimmed hat to protect the face and neck. "Wrap" on some sunglasses to protect the skin around the eyes. And always remember to "Slop" on some SPF 15 or greater sunscreen to protect exposed skin.
