Shield Yourself from Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. According to Bruce Warshauer, M.D., a dermatologist affiliated with Ocean Medical Center in Brick, New Jersey, "Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays is the single most important environmental factor that contributes to skin cancer. Unfortunately, most Americans do not protect themselves from UV rays."

An Ounce of Prevention
Dr. Warshauer offers these tips for saving your skin:

1. Limit your exposure to the sun as much as possible between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
2. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
3. Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply it every two hours.
4. Spread sunscreen on your nose, ears, neck, hands, and the tops of your feet. Also, cover any bald areas on your scalp. Don't forget to wear a lip balm that contains sunscreen.
5. Use sunscreen year-round.
6. Choose tightly woven clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
7. Wear a hat that has at least a 6-inch brim all the way around.
8. Be especially mindful about sun protection if you take medications that boost sun sensitivity. These include some antibiotics, diuretics, and other medicines.

Suspect Skin Changes
Dr. Warshauer points out that speedy detection and treatment of skin cancer can save your life. It can erupt anywhere, but it tends to appear most often on the head, face, neck, hands, and arms. A change in a mole or an unusual new mole is often the first sign. When checking moles, remember your "ABCs":

• Asymmetry: One side of the mole does not match the other.
• Border: The mole's outline is jagged or blurry.

• Color: The color is uneven.
• Diameter: The mole is larger than ¼ inch in diameter — about the size of a pencil eraser.
• Elevation: The mole is raised above the skin's surface.

"To detect skin cancer at an early stage, get familiar with your moles and birthmarks," suggests Dr. Warshauer. "Then, every month, check your entire body in the mirror for skin changes, including your back, scalp, and feet. Most importantly, ask your doctor to check out anything that concerns you." n

To learn more about skin cancer prevention or any upcoming screenings, call the Meridian Health Line at 1-800-560-9990.