Did you know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in this country? Every year, over 2 million people are diagnosed with a form of skin cancer in this country. That means that one in five Americans will develop a form of skin cancer in their lifetime. Below are some common questions from Phoenix residents about this kind of cancer.
What is Skin Cancer and Melanoma?
Skin cancer, like any other form of cancer, is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. This type of cancer happens when DNA in your skin cells is damaged – this commonly happens due to UV radiation from the rays of the sun or tanning beds. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is the rarest, but also the most deadly – nearly 75% of all fatal cases of skin cancer are melanoma patients.
How Can Melanoma Skin Cancer Be Prevented?
Because this form of cancer is directly related to sun exposure, there is no way to completely prevent it because undoubtedly in Phoenix, Arizona you will get some amount of sun exposure, even if you are just sitting by a window. Covering your skin will greatly reduce your exposure and many believe sunscreen is helpful in blocking harmful UV rays – a topic that has often come under fire.
If My Mother Had Skin Cancer or Melanoma, Will I Get It?
Just like with almost any form of illness, if skin cancer runs in your family, you are at higher risk of developing it yourself. Having a blood relative with melanoma is not a death sentence, but it should alert you to the dangers of developing this type of cancer. People with a genetic history of melanoma should be exceedingly cautious about sun exposure.
Are There Areas of the Country or Times of Year That Increase Melanoma Skin Cancer?
Yes! Sunny regions hold the highest number of instances of skin cancers in this country. Areas with longer summer months and warmer temperatures, such as Phoenix, Arizona, are the most dangerous for people at risk for skin cancer. If you live in areas with long summers and lots of sun, be extra cautious about overexposure from sun rays.
What Are The Warning Signs of Melanoma?
Because melanoma can be very difficult to treat in advanced stages, knowing the early signs can be lifesaving. Early signs of melanoma include darkening of moles & freckles, changes in size & shape of moles & freckles, and the appearance of new moles.
Family Practice Specialsits
if you find yourself researching skin cancer and melanoma, it’s probably time to sit down with a Phoenix doctor to work out some of your concerns. Give us a call today to make an appointment with a family physician or specialist we have in-office.
4350 E. Camelback Rd.
Ste F100
Phoenix, AZ 85018
602.955.8700