Skin Cancer Detect anD Protect

“For people who have spots on their skin that they may be concerned about, this is a quick way for them to find out,” says Slettedahl. “Then it will be up to them to arrange to have the spot further evaluated or treated where they choose to receive their regular medical care.”

Skin renewal

Hipsher adds, “Skin cancer does not discriminate by age, gender, or race. Most people think of skin cancer in the elderly population. Unfortunately, I have been seeing more and more patients in their 20, 30s, and 40s with precancerous or cancerous lesions.”

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

• Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States.

• Current estimates are that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

• It is estimated that 144,860 new cases of melanoma, 68,480 noninvasive and 76,380 invasive, will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2016

• Melanoma rates in the United States doubled from 1982 to 2011

• One American dies from melanoma nearly every hour

Vigilance Important

Superior resident Wendy Burkhart up appointments and mindful about watching for anything I see on my skin ever since. I feel lucky that I asked the doctor to take a look at what could have gone on to be something worse.”

Cynthia Eaton, APRN at Essentia Health, says, “The nurse practitioners and dermatologists work closely with one another to meet the needs of our patients. We routinely perform skin cancer checks, treat pre-cancers, and surgically remove skin cancers.”

Melanoma Monday

May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. The American Academy of Dermatology, AAD, designates the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday “to raise awareness of melanoma and other types of skin cancer, and to encourage early detection through self-exams.”

On Monday May 2, 2016, Essentia Health’s dermatology providers will host free skin cancer screenings from 8 am to 4 pm at Essentia Health’s Skin Renewal department, 400 E. Third estheticians and laser technicians will also be on hand to answer any skincare and sun protection questions, along with representatives from EltaMD and Colorscience. All participants will receive a gift bag with sunscreen samples and other skin care products.

Common Sense Prevention

Essentia Health Dermatologist

Dr. Susan Ash warns, “You don’t have to live in a sun belt to develop skin cancer. Many people in this area have fair Scandinavian skin with less natural pigment to avoid getting really bad sunburns.”

The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Prevention Guidelines are:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.

• Do not burn.

• Avoid tanning and 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.

• 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 your physician every year for a professional skin exam.

“It is so important that people understand that skin cancer is increasing and learn how to protect themselves, how to spot them, and who to seek for help. Most skin cancers are easily treated when found early,” adds Dr. Ash. D

Essentia Health’s Melanoma Monday free skin cancer screenings are by appointment only. Call (218) 786-3468 to schedule or for more information.