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Skin Checks Keep Cancer at Bay

Posted on: Thursday, 9 June 2005, 06:00 CDT

On average, men over the age of 40 spend the most time outdoors and get the highest annual doses of solar ultraviolet rays. So it's no wonder that after 40 the rate of men diagnosed with melanoma increases dramatically, while it levels off for women.

Very few men take the time to regularly examine all of their skin or visit a dermasurgeon. They are least likely to detect melanoma early when it's easy to treat. The American Society of Dermatologie Surgery wants to change that. During May, Skin Cancer Awareness month, select dermasurgeons are offering 2-for-1 skin checks.

A skin check, also known as a skin cancer screening, provides an important baseline for comparison to help identify skin changes that may require treatment. Men, woman and children, and especially sun worshipping young adults, should make time for a skin examination. In addition to identifying moles, pigmentation or growths, your dermasurgeon can also assess UV damage to skin and recommend treatment options.

This year 1.3 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with skin cancer. Skin cancer makes up over half of all cancers. It typically occurs in the outer two layers of the skin. The epidermis (top layer) consists largely of squamous cells. Basal cells are found in the layer under the squamous cells. Carcinomas involving squamous and basal cells are the two most common types of skin cancer. Malignant melanoma, the most deadly form of cancer, often first appears as a mole, which is often growing and uneven in size.

Spotting Skin Cancer

Watch for:

* Persistent red-brown, scaly patch similar to psoriasis or eczema

* Non-healing sores which are round or oval and often pink, skin- colored, brown, black, blue or red with a wax-like border and occurs mostly on the face or nose

* Round, irregularly shaped scaly plaques that might be raised and have a translucent rolled border

* Yellow or hyper-pigmented lesions that look like scars

* A growth that increases in size and is a varied tan, brown, pink, red or multicolored

* A growth that continuously itches, burns and scabs, or a long- lasting open sore

* A mole that rapidly changes in size, color or texture. To assess whether a mole may be malignant, follow the "ABCD" rule. Moles that are Asymmetrical or irregular in shape, have uneven Borders, contain multiple shades or Color (usually brown and black), and often have a Diameter over 6mm are more likely to be malignant and should be examined immediately.

Make time to take care of your skin. Use proper sun protection, eat right and exercise to keep the largest organ in your body free from disease. Take advantage of the 2-for-1 skin check this month for yourself and someone special in your life.

ADVANCED SKINCARE MEDCENTER SKIN SMART TIPS

Sun Exposure

* Wear sunscreen daily and protective clothing

* Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure in two layers, 15 minutes apart

* Reapply every 1 1/2 hours during water sports

* Cover ears, exposed hairline areas, neck and chest

Healthy Skin

* Eat a balanced diet, rich in antioxidants

* Stay active and exercise daily

* Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily

* Examine your skin monthly

* Look for any changes in moles, pigmentation or growths

A skin check, also known as a skin cancer screening, provides an important baseline for comparison to help identify skin changes that may require treatment.

David J. Sire M.D., founder and medical director of Advanced Skincare MedCenter, has served the dermasurgical needs of men, women and children in Fullerton for 34 years. He is a consultant to St. Jude's Hospital and an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine. To schedule a 2- for-1 skin check, contact www.ascmedcenter.com.

Copyright CBJ, L. P. May 16-May 22, 2005

Source: Orange County Business Journal

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