SCREENING & PROTECTION INFORMATION from Dr. Steven Davison
Here are a few more tips on Melanoma…since May is National Skin Cancer awareness month. See my last blog for detailed information on the three types of skin cancer and most critically… melanoma skin cancer.
SCREENING: Melanoma can be deadly but is treatable with immediate diagnosis and early treatment. After Melanoma spreads to the lymph nodes, the 5 year survival rate possible with treatment, drops to 62% and 15% respectively.
You can self-screen to check for skin cancers or you can see a dermatologist or sign up for a “free” cancer screening. They are offered frequently around the country.
SELF CHECK for MELANOMA:
Use these steps:
1) STAND UP & look into the mirror & examine your head, scalp, face, neck, chest, torso, (women under the breasts), hands, nails, elbows, arms and underarms.
2) SIT DOWN & check your legs, feet, soles, heels & toenails. Use a HAND MIRROR to check genitals.
3) STAND UP & use a HAND MIRROR to inspect the back of neck, shoulders, upper arms, back, buttocks & legs.
REDUCE YOUR RISK: We cannot completely avoid sun exposure, but there are ways to reduce the risk from exposure.
COVER UP…Wear cool, clothing that covers your body. Dark colors block more UV rays than light colors.
WEAR A HAT…Wear a wide brim hat when out in the sun. It should cover your ears, eyes, forehead, nose and scalp. A baseball cap is better than nothing.
SUNGLASSES… invest in good glasses that block UV rays. They should block 99 t0 100% of UVA & UVB rays.
SUNSCREEN…LOTS OF IT! Get it, use it liberally and apply it often…at least every 2 hours when in the sun.
***Ask Nora about our sunscreen products.
If you have any questions or concerns, call me and we’ll address them right away.
Dr. Steven Davison
At DAVinci…I combine the supreme elements of art & surgical science.
