Melanoma Awareness Month and Preventative Skin Screenings
Stay informed and healthy this Melanoma Awareness Month with the experts at Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine. May is Melanoma Awareness Month, which is the perfect time to familiarize yourself with skin cancer screenings and how often you should have them done. In the United States, skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer and Melanoma is the third most common cancer of this variety. Learn more from Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine about Skin Cancer Prevention Tips and Products. As the months begin to get warmer, you may recognize the black awareness ribbon that brings attention to Melanoma and skin cancer. Keep reading to learn more about skin screenings and how they are the most proactive way to stay informed about your health as it relates to melanoma and skin cancer.
Why is it Important to Detect Melanoma As Early as Possible?
On average, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they reach the age of 70 and as it stands, having five or more sunburns doubles your risk of developing melanoma. Frequent and routine screenings are a crucial part of treating melanoma and other skin cancers. In the U.S. more than two people die from skin cancer every hour, but when melanoma is detected early, the 5-year survival rate is 99%.
How Often Should I Complete a Skin Cancer Screening?
It is recommended that the average patient should receive annual skin cancer screenings. These screenings typically take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. These screenings help the patient and doctor stay informed about any abnormalities on the skin. It is important to inspect various bumps and shapes as they can develop into larger problems. Melanoma itself may begin as a seemingly harmless mole.
How to Can I Perform a Self Skin Cancer Check at Home?
Here are some steps to performing a self skin cancer check from the comfort of your home.
Examine your body in a full-length mirror so that you can see yourself fully
Carefully Examine your underarms, forearms, and hand/palm areas
Carefully Examine your legs and feet, make sure you look at the soles of your feet and in between your toes
Use a smaller hand mirror to check your neck and scalp area
Use the hand mirror to look at your back and rear areas more carefully
Schedule a Skin Screening
At Advanced Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Rani, Dr. Patterson, or Renata Block, PA will complete your cancer screening and provide you with any additional information that you may need to stay healthy and informed. This Melanoma Awareness month, book a preventative skin cancer screening and schedule an appointment at Advanced Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine today.