Incorporate Skin Cancer
Checkups into Beauty Regimen
Freckles. Fine lines. Dark circles.
As women, there is a lot we can
do to counteract the signs of aging
through the help of lotions, concealers
and other beauty aids. But while you
are focused on taking 10 years off your
appearance, you could be missing a
health hazard that strikes many of us:
skin cancer.
p>"Skin cancer is the most common
form of cancer in the United States," says
Mary McGonagle, DO, dermatologist
on staff at Central Montgomery Medical
Center (CMMC).
"It develops when
ultraviolet rays from
the sun damage the
DNA in skin cells,
leading to the
development of skin
cancer." If caught
early, skin cancer is
treatable. So, check
your skin often.
p>Three types of skin cancer account
for nearly all of the diagnosed cases of
cutaneous malignancy -- that is, deadly
skin diseases. Basal cell carcinoma
(BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma
(SCC) are the two most common types.
They appear more commonly on skin
exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears,
scalp and upper trunk. However, SCCs
can also develop on non-sun-exposed
skin, such as the inside of the mouth
and the genitals.
"One of the more serious forms of
skin cancer is melanoma. Melanoma can
be fatal, so an early diagnosis is crucial,"
Dr. McGonagle says. When detecting a
melanoma lesion, Dr. McGonagle
advises women to remember the ABCDs
(and sometimes E) of melanoma:
A -- Asymmetrical shape
B -- Border irregularity
C -- Color variegation
D -- Diameter larger than 6 mm (size of a pencil eraser head)
E -- Evolution (a lesion that is evolving or changing), and sometimes with an elevated surface
Approximately 50 percent of
melanoma develops in a preexisting
mole, while the remainder occurs in
previously normal-looking skin.
Therefore, it is important to know what
your moles look like, be able to detect
changes in your existing moles and
recognize the development of new moles.
Sun Secrets
You can help slow some of the signs of aging and prevent skin cancer by:
- Applying sunscreen daily with an SPF of 15 or higher
- Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses
- Protecting your skin with a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight long-sleeved clothing
- Avoiding outdoor activities between 10 AM and 2 PM
Get Your Skin Checked
To locate a dermatologist in your area
who specializes in skin cancer prevention
or treatment, please call Direct DoctorsSM
Plus at 866-446-2507.
