What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of skin cells. Skin cancer is the most common form of all human cancers, with over 1 million new cases every year. Further, experts see a trend toward more skin cancer due to our frequent sun exposure combined with global warming problems that give us less protection from the sun's rays than we enjoyed only 20-30 years ago.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
Virtually anyone is at risk for skin cancer, but you are most susceptible if you:
- have fair skin and red or blond hair
- have light-colored eyes (blue, green)
- have a history of sunburning easily
- have many moles, freckles or birthmarks
- work or play outside a great deal
- were in the sun a great deal as a child
- have had a serious sunburn in the past
- have family members who have skin cancer
- use a sunlamp or tanning booth
Signs Of Skin Cancer To Watch For:
At SLSS, we follow the ABCDE rule for detecting skin cancer:
- Asymmetry: if a lesion doesn't look the same on both sides if it were divided in half
- Border: if the edges are blurry or jagged
- Color: any changes in color or if there are multiple colors within a lesion
- Diameter: if the lesion larger than ¼" in diameter
- Elevation: If the lesion is raised above the skin and has an uneven surface
- The most important tip we can share is to watch for any changes in a mole that you already have, or the appearance of a new one. Most moles have already appeared by age 30. If you notice a new mole or raised spot after the age of 30, we suggest that you watch this carefully and bring it to our attention.
How Do I Get Started With Skin Cancer Treatments?
Dr. Goldberg and his staff will be happy to discuss skin cancer treatments with you. Please feel free to call for a private consultation or schedule an appointment online at one of our offices.
The staff is wonderfully attentive and kind.
