Here at Resnik Skin Institute, we are passionate about the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I would like to share some important facts about this very common disease:
- The most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with melanoma having the highest mortality rate by far.
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
- Exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the greatest risk factor for the development of skin cancer.
- Early detection of skin cancer reduces the morbidity and mortality of the disease.
Daily use of sun protection coupled with regular full-body skin exams is the best way to prevent and detect skin cancer. For adequate sun protection, I recommend the following: physical sunscreen, Heliocare oral sun protectant, and protective garments (hats, long sleeve shirts, etcetera). These precautions should be taken daily, regardless of how sunny it is outside. You can get a great sunburn on the cloudiest day. Full-body skin exams should be scheduled at regular intervals. For individuals without a history of skin cancer, an annual exam is recommended. For individuals with a history of skin cancer or with evidence of UV skin damage, an exam should be scheduled every 6 months.
Schedule YOUR full-body skin exam today! Send us a Klara or call us today at 305-692-8998. Mention this post to receive a FREE full-size Dual Moisturizing Sunscreen if you schedul a full-body skin exam during the month of May!