It's Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Ocala, FL — With most schools out and summer vacations starting, healthcare professionals want to remind you to protect your skin while enjoying fun in the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer before the age of 70, and 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed every day, with an estimated $8.1 billion annual cost of treatment. While those numbers are staggering, there is hope: when detected early, most skin cancers are curable.
“Early detection saves lives,” says Dr. Eittel Oppenheimer, general and bariatric surgeon at HCA Florida West Marion Hospital. “As a surgeon treating skin cancer, I’ve seen firsthand how outcomes dramatically improve when caught early. Don’t ignore changes in your skin — get checked. And when it comes to sun safety, simple habits like wearing sunscreen and avoiding midday sun exposure can go a long way in preventing skin cancer.”
Dr. Oppenheimer recommends making skin cancer screening by a dermatologist or your primary care provider part of your wellness routine. Schedule a skin exam with your provider as part of your annual well visit — more often if you have any of the following risk factors:
- Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds
- Fair skin and light hair
- Accumulated sun damage through aging
- A family history of skin cancer
- A weakened immune system
Staying vigilant about full-body skin self-exams and advocating for yourself are also essential. If you notice any of these changes in your skin, contact your provider as soon as possible:
- A new growth or spot on the skin
- A sore that doesn't heal or bleeds
- A change in size, shape, or color of a mole
- A rough, scaly patch
- A wound or sore that heals and then returns
Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the two most common types of skin cancer. They can usually be cured if they are detected and treated early. Melanoma can also be cured if it is treated early — but it is the most dangerous skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body.
If you receive a skin cancer diagnosis, there are many treatment options available depending on the type, size and location of the tumor, as well as your overall health. Treatments include surgery, cryotherapy, laser therapy and other specialized procedures. For more advanced cases. Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy and radiation may also be indicated.
“The damage caused by ultraviolet rays leads to skin cancer, so take common sense action to prevent exposure,” Dr. Oppenheimer said. “Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps. Minimize sun exposure by limiting your time outdoors during the middle of the day. Wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and clothing with UV protection. All these habits are essential for healthy skin at all ages.”
For more information, please visit the HCA Florida Healthy Living Blog and SkinCancer.org.