Warning Signs of Melanoma- The Sun is NOT Your Friend Part II
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As we enter the Summer months, here are some important warning signs for Melanoma to be aware of from the American Academy of Dermatology.
A Melanoma is a skin cancer that frequently develops in a mole or appears suddenly as a new dark spot on the skin. As you thoroughly examine your skin periodically, check for these warning signs:
A- stands for ASYMMETRY: One half of the mole or spot is unlike the other half.
B- stands for BORDER; irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
C- stands for COLOR: varied from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue.
D- stands for DIAMETER; while melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser), when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
E- stands for EVOLVING; a mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.
Summer is almost here and vacation time and outdoor activities will be expanding. A "healthy" suntan looks good but if you take certain prescription and OTC medications, you may be at risk for a sunBURN instead.