The above images are from one of our patients. As part of his routine physical, the patient received a complete skin check. The suspicious mole above was biopsied by Brian P. Sanders, MD for no additional charge. The mole was found to be early melanoma. The patient’s care was coordinated with a melanoma specialist for complete excision within a couple of weeks. The patient is now free of cancer. Without his physical and skin check, this could have become a terminal illness.
Per the Skin Cancer Foundation’s guidelines to prevent skin cancer:
- Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Don’t get sunburned.
- Avoid tanning and never use UV tanning beds.
- Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
- Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
- See a provider at least once a year for a professional skin exam.
Compliments to the Skin Cancer Foundation for the guidelines above. Message Brian P. Sanders, MD today to schedule a skin check and routine physical or call (770) 648-3462.