Preston Hollow resident and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Howard Rubin, emphasizes the importance of skin cancer checks, especially during this season. Early in his career, Dr. Rubin detected skin cancer on his wife, leveraging his position to guide others in recognizing signs.
Skin cancer can impact all skin types and ages, with higher risks for those who are lighter-skinned, prone to sunburn, or have a family history of skin cancer. Other underlying health and medical issues are also contributing factors.
The most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, followed by squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, the third form, is fortunately less common but potentially more serious. Basal and squamous cells are often found in the head and neck areas exposed to more sun, while melanoma is typically observed on the back of men or legs of women.
Here are recommendations and steps Dr. Rubin suggests for identifying signs, scheduling an annual exam, and understanding who may be affected:
Minimize sun exposure during peak sunlight hours and in intense sun conditions. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Adopt mild cleansers and moisturize regularly.
Avoid prolonged hot showers, even as a retreat from cold weather.
To check for skin cancer in moles, follow these steps:
A – Asymmetry.
B – Border irregularity, looking for jagged edges instead of circular.
C – Irregular coloring beyond the usual tan or brown.
D – Diameter, considering moles larger than six millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser.
E – Evolution. Moles should remain stable and not undergo significant changes.
These steps can help individuals identify potential skin issues and take proactive measures for early detection and prevention.
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