Keep a Watch For Skin Cancer

By Dr. Riffat Sadiq

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. However, when melanoma is caught early, it has a survival rate of 99%. Vigilance about sunscreen and a yearly trip to the dermatologist for a full body check are two of the most important steps to fighting skin cancer. You can also check yourself. Using a bright light and a full-length mirror, examine your face and neck for any moles or other marks. Look behind your ears, and use a hairdryer to look on your scalp. Check your hands, arms, and underarms, being careful to look under fingernails. Check your torso (look under breasts), legs, and feet. Use a hand mirror for hard-to-see areas.

People who have had at least one severe sunburn as a child or teenager are at increased risk of melanoma. Because of this, doctors advise that parents protect children’s skin from the sun. Such protection may reduce the risk of melanoma later in life. Sunburns in adulthood are also a risk factor for melanoma.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call WNY MEDICAL, or visit us at our location: 4979 Harlem Road, Amherst (716-923-4380).

Sun exposure causes more than 90% of all skin cancers.