Skin Cancer Awareness: What You Need to Know & How to Protect Yourself
As the days grow warmer and sunnier, it’s a good time to remind ourselves about an important health topic we often overlook: skin cancer. It’s one of the most common forms of cancer — but the good news is, when caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable.
In this edition, let’s talk about why it matters, how to screen yourself at home, and when to seek professional help.
Why Is It So Important to Control and Screen for Skin Cancer?
Your skin is your largest organ and your body’s first line of defense against the outside world. Over time, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds can cause damage to your skin cells, sometimes leading to skin cancer.
Early detection is life-saving because:
Skin cancer is highly treatable in its early stages.
Some types, like melanoma, can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not caught early.
Regular checks can help you stay familiar with your skin and notice small changes before they become serious.
How to Perform a Skin Self-Check
You don’t need to be a medical expert to screen yourself — just a mirror, good lighting, and a little time once a month. Here’s how:
Examine your entire body:
Check your face, scalp (use a hand mirror or ask someone to help), neck, chest, and torso.
Don’t forget under your breasts, arms, hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
Check your back, buttocks, legs, and feet — including the soles and between your toes.
Follow the ABCDE Rule for moles and spots:
A — Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other.
B — Border: irregular, jagged, or blurry edges.
C — Color: varied shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue.
D — Diameter: larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), though smaller spots can also be suspicious.
E — Evolving: any spot that changes in size, shape, color, or texture.
Look for other warning signs:
∙ New growths
Sores that don’t heal
Itching, tenderness, or bleeding spots
Prevention Is Just as Important
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily, even on cloudy days.
Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
Avoid tanning beds.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you notice any suspicious moles, new growths, or skin changes — especially those that meet the ABCDE criteria — make an appointment with a dermatologist. Experts recommend a professional skin check once a year for most people, and more frequently if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer.
Final Thoughts
Your skin is a reflection of your overall health, and taking a few minutes each month to check it can truly save your life. Protect it, respect it, and pay attention to the small changes. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with early detection and prevention.
Take care of yourself — inside and out.