Melanoma – All Year

Skin cancer is one of the most common form of all cancers. Though accounting for less than 5% of all skin cancers, melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer responsible for the majority of skin cancer attributed deaths.

The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be approximately 80,000 new melanomas diagnosed in 2013 with incidence rates on the rise for the last 30 years. This year, almost 9,000 people are expected to die of melanoma. It is well established that early detection and treatment of melanoma are essential for the best outcome.

Just because the month of May is coming to a close, doesn’t mean you can forget about your skin. The summer is just ramping up! Prepare yourself for year-long protection with this handy checklist!

• Make appointment for annual skin check with dermatologist – do it TODAY.
• Check your insurance coverage for a provider and/or find one here: www.aad.org
• Put in a recurring reminder in your e-calendar to go each May
• Print a body map and do your self-check for the month
• Learn how here: How to Perform a Self Exam
• Get a body map here: Body Mole Map
• Put in a recurring reminder in your e-calendar for each month
• Buy at least 4-5 new sunscreens so you will never be caught without it. (Throw old ones out – efficacy can wane over time.)
• Put one in your bathroom for application in the morning
• Put one by the door
• Put one in your car
• Put one in your purse/bag
• Keep a hat in your car along with a light-weight cotton shirt
• Late to soccer practice with the kids? You are covered!

And remember the best way to prevent melanoma is to … .