Get your spots checked

Join us on May 1st for our annual Melanoma Monday event to receive free spot checks for unusual or suspicious spots or moles on your skin.

Melanoma, one of the least common forms of skin cancer, can be deadly. It can occur anywhere on the skin. Although the exact cause is not clear, the risk of developing it is increased with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning lamps and beds. Limiting exposure reduces the risk. Cases of melanoma have been increasing over the years, especially in younger women.

If you notice a mole on your skin, you should follow the ABCDE rule, which outlines the warning signs of melanoma:

• A = Asymmetry – one half of the mole is unlike the other half
• B = Border – the edge or border of the mole is irregular or blurred
• C = Color – the color is not uniform with shades of black, brown, tan, and sometimes red, white, and blue
• D = Diameter – the mole is greater than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser) although melanomas can be smaller
• E = Evolving – a mole that is changing or evolving or looks different than the others

Facts:

• One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime
• Invasive melanoma is projected to be the fifth most common cancer for men, the seventh most common cancer for women, and the second most common form of cancer in females aged 15-29
• Melanoma is highly treatable when detected early
• Although melanomas can develop anywhere on your body, areas exposed to sunlight are more susceptible
• Melanoma accounts for 5% of all skin cancers and 71% of skin cancer deaths
• Although anyone can get melanoma, the risk is much higher for fair-skinned redheads and blonds with blue or green eyes or skin that freckles or burns easily

So get your spots checked. Spot checks or full body scans are available. Stop tanning. Prevent cancer.

Meet dermatologist Erin Luxenberg, MD. Dr. Luxenberg will be participating in this free cancer prevention event. Dr. Luxenberg practices on the HCMC campus, at our Golden Valley Clinic, and at our new North Loop Clinic and Pharmacy. She is board-certified in both dermatology and internal medicine. She specializes in complex medical dermatology and has a special interest in general, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatology. To make an appointment at one of our dermatology locations call (612) 873-6963.