Recently, my family and I visited Mexico on vacation. It was sunny, warm and a welcome change from this winter’s chaotic weather. Since we spent most of the time outside by the water, I made sure the whole family was sun safe (i.e., using sunscreen, covering up, not burning, seeking shade during peak hours, etc.) to help prevent skin cancer.
But there is more to fighting skin cancer than just being sun safe. It is just as important to regularly check your skin for any changes. I was recently reminded of this fact when my wife and I noticed a mole on my chest had begun to change. I made an appointment with my doctor to have a full-body skin screening and she decided to remove two suspicious spots (which is an easy in-office procedure).
This May, I’m encouraging everyone to participate in the Melanoma Research Foundation’s “GetNaked” campaign. Simply make a point this month check your skin and ask a spouse, partner, friend or family member to help you keep track of suspicious moles and check hard-to-see places. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
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- Check your skin thoroughly – even the places that never see the sun
- Check your scalp, your nails, the bottoms of your feet and other places that aren't obvious as these are places where moles can be missed or overlooked
- Take a look at this Self-Screening Guide for a “how-to” on self-skin examinations
- Pay attention to your skin and know what is normal for you. Bring any mole or lesion that is new or changing to the attention of a doctor right away
For more information about Principal Medical Group, or to set up an appointment to have a mole checked, visit www.principalmedicalgroup.com.
