Skin Cancer and Your Feet

Skin Cancer Awareness
Ninety percent of skin cancer is caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Skin cancer has become increasingly more common and deadly. The three types of skin cancer include the following: Malignant Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. The most serious and dangerous form is malignant melanoma.
Skin cancer can affect all races of people and may present in surprising places, such as under toenails or on the bottoms of the feet. Any form of skin cancer can occur on the feet, so it is essential to check your feet regularly. If you notice any changes or warning signs, please call 708-763-0580 for your foot check up!
It is essential to pay attention to the ABCs when monitoring changes on your skin. These are warning signs for skin cancer. If any of the following abnormalities are present on a mole or spot on the skin, it is essential to have it checked out by a doctor.
A-Asymmetry:
The spot is cannot be divided equally into halves.
B- Border/Bleeding:
The edges are irregular or bleeding.
C- Color:
Spots that have color changes within them need to be checked by a doctor.
D- Diameter:
If it is larger than a pencil eraser, it should be checked by a doctor.
Elevation:
The lesion is raised above the rest of the skin.
How to prevent skin cancer?
1. Avoid outdoor activities when possible between 10 am- 4 pm, when the sun rays are most intense.
2. Wear sunscreen all year (not just in the summer) and use at lease SPF 15. It does not protect against all the UV rays, but it certainly helps to protect you.
3. Wear protective clothing to cover the skin when outside, and wear sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays.
4. Be aware that certain medications can cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun’s rays. Consult your pharmacist about any medications you are taking to see if they make the skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays.
5. Check your skin regularly for any abnormal or new changes.
6. Avoid tanning beds.

This information is presented by Dr. Mary Ann Bender, Advanced Physical Medicine. 708-763-0580. If you have any concerns about skin changes on your feet, please call for an appointment.