Health Possible Magazine - June, 2021

LIFESTYLE TIPS FOR REAL LIVES

H A N C O C K H E A LT H I S S U E 09 | S U M M E R 2021

HEALTH POSSIBLE NOW MORE THAN EVER

Including BOOK CLUBS VENT, DREAM AND SHARE | 6

LIGHTENUP PROGRAM OBESITY HAS BEEN A GROWING EPIDEMIC IN OUR COUNTRY FOR 30 YEARS | 8

M E N ' S M E N TA L H E A LT H JUNE IS NATIONAL MEN'S HEALTH MONTH | 10

P L U S: SUMMER SALAD RECIPES AND A MAN'S MENU THROUGHOUT THE YEARS.

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT See page 12

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I S S U E # 97

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CONTENTS

A Few Ideas to START With A WORD FROM STEVE

Hear From Our President PG. 6

BOOK CLUBS

Vent, Dream and Share PG. 8

BOOK CLUBS | PG. 6

Vent, Dream and Share

LIGHTENUP PROGRAM

Achieve Measurable Results PG. 10

M E N ' S M E N TA L H E A LT H

National Men's Health Month PG. 12

A MAN'S MENU

You Are What You Eat

W H AT ' S C O O K I N G | P G . 1 4

Exciting Summer Salads PG. 14

SUMMER SALADS

Boring Salads? No Way. PG. 16

FIGHT AGAINST SKIN CANCER

What You Need to Know

W H AT YO U N E E D T O K N O W | P G . 1 6

Fight Against Skin Cancer

H E A LT H P O S S I B L E . O R G

PG.3

A NOTE ON SUPPORT GROUPS & CLASSES Our in-person support groups and classes are on hiatus due to the

INFORMATION. INSPIRATION. FUN. It’s about living in a more intentionally healthy way.

HealthPossible.org

coronavirus but will return just as soon as it’s considered safe for all.

In the meantime, you can still join our Hancock Wellness Center team on our Facebook pages for online video workouts and classes (both live and replays).

Questions?

Call us at 317-468-4708

HEALTH POSSIBLE

Fact:

There have been a lot of myths surrounding COVID-19 and the vaccines developed to end a year-long pandemic. While some of the myths on cable TV are rather amusing, the myths about COVID-19 and vaccines can be downright dangerous and life-threatening.

However, we just need to look to science to disprove these myths. Here are some we hear frequently and the facts to disprove them: Myth:

Almost two decades ago, cable television introduced us to MythBusters, a show dedicated to exploring myths, tall tales and urban legends, and testing them against scientific facts to determine their validity.

Myths are proved true, probable, possible, improbable or busted.

Fast-forward to the last 12 months. Now, I feel like I’m a myth buster. The number of vaccines we are giving daily has been steadily dwindling. While the numbers of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have plummeted, falling short of a 70% vaccination rate among Hoosiers puts the state in a precarious place.

Today, only about 40% of Indiana residents are vaccinated.

“Herd immunity” only works if a large percentage of a community is immunized.

If too many people aren’t vaccinated, diseases (and variants) will develop and spread.

Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine can

affect women’s fertility.

Researchers rushed the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, so its effectiveness and safety cannot be trusted.

Fact:

Facts:

S T E V E L O N G, P R E S I D E N T A N D C E O, H A N C O C K H E A LT H

WELCOME

TIME TO BE A MYTH BUSTER

•

Studies found that the two initial vaccines are both about 95% effective and reported no serious or life-threatening side effects.

•

There are many reasons why the COVID-19 vaccines could be developed so quickly. The COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna were reated with a method that has been in development for years, so the companies could start the vaccine development process early in the pandemic.

•

In addition, some types of COVID-19 vaccines were created using messenger RNA (mRNA), which allows a faster approach than the traditional way that vaccines are made. The mRNA technology behind the new coronavirus vaccines has been in development for almost two decades. Vaccine- makers created the technology to help them respond quickly to a new pandemic illness, such as COVID-19.

Myth:

The effectiveness of vaccines has never been proven.

The COVID-19 vaccine will not affect fertility. The truth is that the COVID-19 vaccine encourages the body to create copies of the spike protein found on the oronavirus’s surface. This “teaches” the body’s immune system to fight the virus that has that specific spike protein on it. Getting COVID-19, on the other hand, can have a potentially serious impact on pregnancy and the mother’s health.

Myth: Vaccines aren’t worth

the risk.

Fact:

Diseases prevented by vaccines can be serious.

Even deadly.

If you’ve not yet received your vaccine, I’m hoping that, armed with these facts, you will reconsider.

For more information about the coronavirus or the vaccine, visit the Hancock Regional Hospital website.

COVID-19 vaccine appointments are now open to Hoosiers age 12+.

PLEASE REGISTER AT WWW.OURSHOT.IN.GOV OR CALL 211.

Fact: Widespread use of vaccines has

nearly wiped out diseases like small

pox, measles and polio since the mid-1900s.

Myth:

I don’t need to vaccinate if everyone else does.

H E A LT H P O S S I B L E . O R G

PG.5

NOT YOUR AVERAGE BOOK CLUB Book clubs have become today’s quilting circles of old.

Women especially have found a healing place to vent, share, dream and socialize, all while eating yummy food and making lifelong friends. Oh, and reading books, of course! And the mental health benefits are astonishing!

READING IS GOOD FOR YOU! Reading has been scientifically proven to make us happy. In fact, a European study shows that reading for only six minutes lowered readers’ stress by 68%! Reading outranked taking a walk, having a cup of tea or coffee or even listening to your favorite music. That’s incredibly powerful mental therapy at a fraction of the cost of a counselor! Other studies have also shown that reading: •

improves brain connectivity (may even promote growth of new brain cells)

•

aids in sleep readiness, as it’s a great relaxation technique

•

reduces stress

•

lowers blood pressure and heart rate

•

prevents cognitive decline as we age because it increases memory, creativity and knowledge

So, we know reading is good for us. But why do we need to do it with others? So many reasons.

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BOOK CLUBS

W H AT B O O K C L U B S O F F E R •

Book clubs give us a sense of community and belongingness. Even during our pandemic isolation, online book clubs filled a huge void and defeated feelings of isolation, which greatly protects against depression.

• Because you commit, as a member, to reading

goals, when you accomplish them, you feel a sense

of achievement, which can’t but boost your self-esteem.

•

Bonding over a story or its characters with like-minded people offers a safe place to process emotions felt as you continue through the plot.

It’s likely that at least one other member will have similar feelings, which means you and your ideas are validated. Sometimes all we need is to know that we’ve been heard, right? Conversely, another member’s point of view may be opposite

of yours, and you’ll be challenged to investigate your POV, motives, filters and assumptions. Either way, it’s a win-win.

•

As the pandemic locked us down, it birthed an explosion of online book clubs that suddenly had no physical, cultural, racial or socio-economic boundaries. Members were connected with a global network of peers, which could greatly grow their knowledge and empower their voices.

Imagine sitting in Greenfield, Indiana, discussing a bestseller’s protagonist with someone in India!

As one reader expressed, “In an online community, there’s no such thing as social distancing.”

•

Book clubs, because of the inherent intimacy in the written and spoken word, offer a cheap form of therapy. Identifying with a circumstance or a character’s emotions or actions inevitably leads a reader to look inward and compare their own actions and beliefs. Hearing other members’ stories shines a light on our personal history and presents opportunities to talk out our mistakes and doubts. “Could I have responded differently?” “What would have been the healthy choice?” “Can I ever let myself off the hook for that decision?” Face it, once established, a blook club can be a free weekly support group for those who need it!

•

Other health benefits include a sense of stability and safety in a world that sometimes feels like utter chaos. You meet every week at the same place with the same people at the same time. Also, even if opinions differ, coming together over a common goal is unifying, not divisive, which everyone could use a little more of these days.

You don’t have to be Oprah or Ellen or even Reese Witherspoon to start or join a club. The League of Women Voters in Greenfield is currently running one based on Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson.

This work was chosen to stimulate community discussion around the black experience in our nation. Timely! The club began in March but will run all year, and you are welcome to join at any time! Whether you create your own club with a group of friends gathered around trays of yummy snacks or go online with people from around the world, you can never go wrong with a good book and an even better discussion. Happy reading!

H E A LT H P O S S I B L E . O R G

PG.7

O

besity has been a growing epidemic in our country for the past 30 years.

As the prevalence of obesity and weight problems in America continues to rise, more and more people are turning to diets and wellness programs to help them shed extra pounds and increase their quality of life. The LightenUp program through Hancock Health is giving citizens of Hancock County a fighting chance at better health and chronic disease prevention.

Launched in February of 2020, LightenUp has its foundation in the holistic philosophy of lifestyle medicine. Led by physician Lori Deemer and her team consisting of a health coach, exercise specialist, registered dietitian and licensed social worker, this all-inclusive and broad-based program provides real results to those who need help losing weight.

Deemer is trained in lifestyle medicine as well as obesity medicine, practices family medicine through the Hancock Physicians Network, and is the acting medical director of Hancock Wellness Centers.

ADDING LIFE TO YEARS INSTEAD OF YEARS TO LIFE Deemer is passionate about helping patients achieve measurable results by building healthy habits and routines that can help them to better their quality of life. In our culture, we’re concerned with adding years to our life without thinking about what those years will be like if we don’t care for our bodies. By implementing big-impact lifestyle changes such as understanding nutrition, seeking therapy for underlying issues and working one on one with a health coach, Deemer’s LightenUp program provides the kickstart that many people need on their journey toward better health management.

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These include stress management, nutrition, physical activity, supportive relationships, sleep and reduction of harmful substances.

With multidisciplinary support, Deemer’s team is looking to get people excited about their health and to feel empowered to take their wellness and lifestyle choices into their own hands. Even the nutrition and exercise aspects of the program are tailored completely to each individual person, making this program truly unique.

HEALTH IS POSSIBLE! LightenUp is a nine- to 10-month program that can be extended as maintenance for as long as needed. For the first six weeks of the program, patients meet weekly with various team members then, afterward, come on a biweekly basis. This adds up to about 22 visits, each one meant to optimize the six pillars of lifestyle medicine. It is Deemer’s hope that patients will feel like they are becoming free to be in their bodies and proud of themselves for making these huge lifestyle changes. With her team’s support, anything is possible.

LightenUp is financially accessible to everyone, with a low cost of $200 to start followed by a $100 monthly fee. Copays may apply depending on insurance, and the program’s team works hard to make sure the accessibility aspect is intact by applying a cap so that no one will have to pay excessive amounts financially to get the help needed. The LightenUp program meets on Thursday afternoons from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Interested? Call 317-468-4774 or email lightenup@ hancockregional.org for more information or to register. Take your health into your own hands and get ready to meet a healthier you!

H E A LT H P O S S I B L E . O R G

PG.9

LIGHTENUP

THE SIX MAJOR PILLARS OF LIFESTYLE MEDICINE ARE ADDRESSED WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE LIGHTENUP PROGRAM.

MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH FACTS & STATS une is National Men’s Health Month. Although a quick Google search of this topic usually leads to a variety of information regarding physical health and wellness, men’s mental health is rarely discussed. But it should be front and center. A whopping one in five adults experience a mental health problem each year, and approximately 6 million males are affected by depression alone.

It is best to know the facts of mental illness so that you can help yourself or the men in your life to keep in shape not only physically, but emotionally as well.

DEPRESSED AND SILENT Depression is one of the top mental illnesses in our nation, and that includes the male demographic. Male depression is often likely to go undiagnosed because men may feel embarrassed by the idea of having a mental disorder and, therefore, are less likely to seek help. Not only that, but male symptoms differ from female symptoms in that they are not usually the stereotypical feelings of sadness and worthlessness.

Instead, men may report increased fatigue, irritability and a loss of interest in work or other hobbies.

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MORE THAN JUST MOOD SWINGS Anxiety is also a common mental concern among men, with panic disorders and phobias falling under this umbrella. Bipolar disorder is another rampant mental illness, affecting an equal number of both men and women. Psychosis and schizophrenia are surprisingly tilted in the direction of males. In fact, 90% of the people diagnosed with schizophrenia by the time they are age 30 are men. Most people may not think of men when they hear the term “eating disorder,” but men account for about 10% of anorexia and bulimia cases as well as 35% of binge-eating disorders.

SUICIDE IS A GROWING PROBLEM One of the fastest growing mental health trends in our nation is suicide. All of the mental illnesses above can result in suicidal depression or other forms of self-harm.

Suicide is actually the seventh leading cause of death for men in America, with the highest rates being in 85 and older white males. Those rates climb higher if you factor in military veterans as well as sexual orientation. Other risk factors can include substance abuse, unemployment, genetic predisposition and other mood disorders.

WHAT CAN HELP? Healthy hormones, eating well and getting plenty of physical activity are important for a man’s mental health. In fact, low testosterone can contribute to depression, stress and even mood swings. Emotional expression is important as well, and many men feel they cannot express themselves properly because of our cultural and social norms. Seeing that men are more likely to downplay symptoms or to be reluctant to talk about how they are feeling, they may not get the professional help they need.

IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE IS SHOWING SIGNS OF DEPRESSION OR ANY OTHER MENTAL DISORDER, ENCOURAGE THEM TO SEEK OUT A PROFESSIONAL FOR GUIDANCE. Don’t be afraid to pursue the help you need or advocate for your own or your loved one’s well-being, especially when mental health is a concern.

M E N ' S H E A LT H

DADS CAN SUFFER FROM POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION, TOO WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS? Men who had a strained relationship with their fathers are more likely to suffer from postpartum depression once they step into the role of fatherhood. A lack of social support and financial or work stress can also contribute to these feelings. A history of depression can be a huge factor, but it is important to know that this background isn’t always the case. Many times, a new baby means a huge change in the marital relationship, mostly marked by a decrease in attention and intimacy from their spouse, which can also lead Dad to depression, feelings of jealousy or difficulty in developing a bond with Baby.

ARE MEN’S SYMPTOMS DIFFERENT FROM WOMEN’S? As with women, postpartum depression can manifest itself in myriad ways in men. Some new fathers may cry for no reason, while others may act out in frustration or anger. Significant weight loss, withdrawal from family and friends, a quick fuse and problems concentrating are other possible symptoms. It’s important to remember that this is a diagnosed medical condition and nothing of which to be ashamed. Many men who have never had a mental issue are surprised to find that they’ve developed postpartum depression.

By now, most people have heard of the far-reaching effects of postpartum depression in mothers. After a woman has a baby, she is screened multiple times using a special questionnaire, and partners are taught to look for differences between the more normal “baby blues” and full-blown postpartum depression. One thing that hasn’t been spoken of much in our society, however, is postpartum depression in fathers, which, it turns out, is more common than you think.

Although it seems like a wide range, anywhere from 2% to 25% of dads suffer from postpartum depression. If their partner is depressed, this number skyrockets to about 50%. That is a lot of men who are feeling the toll of parenthood, isolation and other emotions when a new baby takes up residence in the home. The difference may be, however, that dads’ emotions don’t get addressed, and they may not realize what they’re feeling is serious.

A father who suffers from postpartum depression may, like a mother, have difficulty bonding with their baby and other children. This can have far-reaching effects, especially if both parents are suffering from this condition. Therefore, it’s extremely important for a man to get the help he needs in regard to his mental health. Many doctors are now using the same postpartum questionnaire, the EPDS, for both men and women.

Postpartum depression in fathers may seem rare, but it is much more common than you think. The key to managing this mental disorder is seeking help from a trusted healthcare provider. Furthermore, partners can help watch for various signs and symptoms. A father may feel ashamed to admit his feelings to his partner or may feel alone in his lack of bonding. However, an important thing to remember is, statistically speaking, you are not alone. It’s important to get help so that you and your partner can joyously continue on as a family in raising your new baby.

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A MAN'S MENU THROUGH THE YEARS DID YOU GROW UP HEARING THE PHRASE “YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT”?

THE OBESITY EPIDEMIC

As it turns out, it’s true! The food you eat at every meal and snack on throughout your day has an impact on your body’s ability to function and thrive. Healthy eating and knowledge of nutritional requirements are vital to feeling your best throughout your life. June is National Men’s Health Month, and there is no better time to talk about what nutritional requirements a man should not be missing out on, no matter what his age.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE

Healthy eating doesn’t just keep you from gaining excess weight. Your body will feel physically better, yes, but that’s because eating the right foods improves your immune system function, digestion, skin health, cardiovascular health and the health of every other body system. Getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals through diet is like purchasing the best insurance plan you can buy.

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ABOUT 74% OF U.S. MEN ARE OVERWEIGHT, ACCORDING TO THE OF DIABETES AND DIGESTIVE AND KIDNEY DISEASES. Unfortunately, as much as being at a healthy weight can increase your overall health and wellness, being overweight can do the opposite. A man’s risk of heart disease and diabetes as well as a host of other chronic and acute diseases increases with weight gain.

The good news? A really easy way to make sure you are doing your best to live a healthy life is watching what you put on your plate. This means eating foods from all of the food groups: whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, protein and dairy. Men need approximately 2,000 to 3,000 calories per day to maintain a healthy body weight and metabolism.

ages 20-50 Men in childbearing years should plan to get plenty of zinc on their plates, as this helps maintain reproductive health.

Oysters, red meat, shellfish and pumpkin seeds are good sources of this vitamin. It is also important to take in sufficient amounts of fiber, which you can acquire by eating about 2 cups of fruit and 2.5 cups of vegetables per day. Whole grains are also a good source of fiber and other vitamins and minerals, and anywhere from 4 to 8 servings should be sufficient. Make sure to check

serving sizes on the back of your pasta or rice packages, as most people tend to eat more than one serving without realizing it.

Adding plenty of legumes to the diet increases fiber as well as protein. Make sure to get your protein from multiple sources, not just animals. Fish is a great option as it provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for brain function, vision, heart health and artery health. Favor lean proteins such as poultry to keep saturated fats to a minimum.

Healthy fats are a must for people of all ages. Fat has gotten a bad rap in the past because of its association with being overweight or causing an increased risk of disease.

However, it is important to note that there are fats to be avoided, such as trans fats and saturated fats, as well as fats that are necessary for bodily functioning. These healthy fats come in the form of seeds, nuts, avocados and plant-based oils, and they are an important part of any whole-foods diet.

ages 50-70 The key to staying healthy as

lower in calories but still offer

healthy fats. Protein can come

you age is getting the most bang

a wide variety of nutrients —

from leaner sources now, such

for your buck nutritionally.

is vital.

as tofu, poultry and fish, and

Your calorie needs may decrease

red meat should be eaten only

as you age, but you still need

You should be going for the

occasionally. Getting plenty

plenty of vitamins and minerals.

same whole foods, eating plenty

of fiber from these sources

Therefore, eating nutritionally

of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean

is incredibly important as

dense foods — foods that are

proteins, whole grains and

you age.

vitamins and minerals from real, fresh foods can be an easier way for the body to absorb these nutrients. Some excellent sources of calcium include low-fat milk, cheese, yogurt, broccoli, tofu, almonds

and kale. Phosphorus is another important nutrient and is found in dairy as well as sardines and peanut butter or other nut butters.

ages 70+ Men older than 70 could be at risk for calcium or vitamin D deficiency. Talk to your doctor about taking a supplement to make sure you are covering all of your nutritional needs.

However, getting the right

Men’s nutritional needs change a bit with age, but no matter which phase of life you are in, it is important to eat nutritionally dense, whole foods. By treating your body right, you will stave off common diseases associated with aging, such as heart disease, diabetes and other

chronic diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle will also help you stay active longer, which may increase longevity. Follow these guidelines as a simple way to get more nutrition into your diet and feel your best so that you can live your best life!

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SUMMER IS A GREAT TIME TO MIX UP A SALAD #HealthPossible Boring Salads? No Way. If the daily food requirement of five fruits and vegetables seems like an unattainable goal, think about salads. Boring? No way! We’re not talking about iceberg lettuce and ranch dressing.

We’ve got some great, seasonal recipes to add plenty of healthy antioxidants, fiber and good fats that can fill you up and keep you on the path to good health.

In addition, they’re a classic summer treat: cool and quick to make, so you can get out of the kitchen and on with your outdoor fun.

Avocado Caprese Salad VINAIGRETTE

1/4 CUP BALSAMIC

VINEGAR 1 CLOVE GARLIC, MINCED 1 TBSP HONEY 1/2 TSP KOSHER SALT

SALAD

INSTRUCTIONS

1 PINT CHERRY OR GRAPE TOMATOES, HALVED

Make the vinaigrette:

2 MED AVOCADOS, DICED

4 0Z. FRESH 1/4 TSP FRESHLY MOZZARELLA GROUND BLACK PEARLS PEPPER 3/4 CUP TORN FRESH 1/3 CUP OLIVE OIL BASIL LEAVES

Whisk the vinegar, garlic, honey, salt and pepper together in a large bowl. While whisking, slowly pour in the oil and whisk until emulsified. This can last for up to one day in the refrigerator.

Make the salad: Add all the salad ingredients to the dressing and stir gently to combine. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Stir again just before serving.

(HTTPS://WWW.THEKITCHN.COM/) It’s hard to improve on the classic Caprese salad, but this version with avocado really does it one better.

Earthy avocado is the perfect complement to the sweetness of the tomato and the bite of the balsamic vinegar. In addition to the health benefits of both tomatoes and avocados, this salad is rich in protein to keep you going during long sunny days.

(Serves 4-6)

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Triple-Berry Summer Salad INSTRUCTIONS

9 OZ. BABY SPINACH, 1/2 CUP SLICED TORN

ALMONDS, TOASTED 1 CUP SLICED STRAWBERRIES 1/2 CUP CHOPPED BASIL

Divide baby spinach between plates then top with berries, almonds,

1 CUP RASPBERRIES 1 CUP BLUEBERRIES

1 AVOCADO, CHOPPED 4 OZ. GOAT CHEESE

RECIPES

INGREDIENTS

basil and chopped avocado. Crumble goat cheese on top then dress with salad dressing. We recommend fruit-infused balsamic vinegar (like strawberry or … white key lime!), but any olive-oil based vinaigrette would be fantastic.

IOWAGIRLEATS.COM/ At this time of year, berries are plentiful, and with strawberries, raspberries and blueberries, this salad has three times the antioxidant oomph. Spinach provides a long list of important vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, almonds add crunch, and cheese brings the tang.

(Serves 4)

BERRIES BERRIES, RASP N D W I T H S T R AW E PLENTIFUL, A R A S .

E H I P R M R E O B O , T R F YEA IOXIDAN AT T H I S T I M E O TIMES THE ANT LAD HAS THREE A S S I H T , S E I R AND BLUEBER

Triple-Berry Summer Salad

FIND MORE IDEAS FOR H E A LT H Y F O O D A N D B E T T E R L I V I N G AT H E A LT H P O S S I B L E . O R G

H E A LT H P O S S I B L E . O R G

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the best defense

IN THE FIGHT AGAINST SKIN CANCER What You Need to Know P G.1 6

ISSUE #9

A

ccording to the CDC, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in our country, with about 4.3 million adults per year seeking treatment.

That being said, it doesn’t make it any easier to other forms of this disease. One thing that all dermatologists and oncologists agree on is that early detection and prevention are key to keeping your skin healthy and cancer free, no matter your

One of the best forms of protection against skin cancer is regular screenings both by you and your dermatologist. Monthly self-exams are a great habit to get into, as you are the one who knows your body best. In general, when performing a skin cancer exam, you want to look for five things, and they are easy to remember as ABCDE:

age, ethnicity or family history.

ASSYMETRY: One part of a mole or The Skin Cancer Foundation, an obvious yet prolific resource for those seeking information on this disease, claims that skin cancer cases

birthmark does not look the same as the other. In other words, is it the same all the way through or are there variations in color or size?

are rising rapidly, with a 77% increase in nonmelanoma skin cancers between 1994 and 2014. Even within the last 10 years, we have seen a 44% increase in the number of cases of invasive

BORDER: The edges are irregular, notched or blurred.

melanoma. Indoor tanning is believed to be a huge factor in the rise of cases, and one study even claims that tanning is more likely to give you skin cancer than smoking is to give you lung

COLOR: The color is not the same all over.

cancer. Outdoor sun exposure is a huge factor, too, and while most people love to feel it warming their skin, they also need to understand more

DIAMETER: The spot is larger than a quarter-inch across.

about its ability to cause damage.

HOW DO I PROTECT MY SKIN WHEN THE SUMMER SUN CALLS?

EVOLVING: Is it changing in size, shape or color?

We all know that it’s vital to protect our skin from sun damage, beginning in childhood. There are some very basic guidelines in sun protection that, when followed, can vastly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. First, seek shade when possible, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It can be very tempting to try for that golden tan, but remember that this almost always equates to skin damage.

Wear sun-protective clothing and use sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy outside. A broadspectrum sunscreen is best, as this protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Use a minimum SPF 30 or higher in order to get the best protection possible, and reapply frequently, especially if swimming. The same sunscreen rules apply to children, but they may need more frequent breaks to reapply because they are usually a busier bunch. Spray sunscreens work really well if you’re at the beach and your kids don’t yet appreciate the benefits of the exfoliation that comes with grains of sand mixed into a creamier lotion.

If you find one or more of these things to be true about any mole or birthmark on your body, call your dermatologist to schedule a full-body skin exam. In fact, it is wise for most people to head to a dermatologist at least once a year. Additionally, share with your doctor if you find that you have a sore that won’t heal, any new spots, redness or swelling beyond the border of a new mole or itching or tenderness in an area that won’t go away.

As summer months warm up and call us to enjoy the outdoors, keep in mind that sun protection, even on cloudy days, is vital in maintaining healthy skin. Children are also susceptible to skin damage and need just as much protection as adults. Sunscreen can be a great defense in the fight against skin cancer as can sun-protective clothing.

Self-exams and early detection are also key, and they could save your life or the life of someone you love. Remember to schedule routine exams with a dermatologist you trust for the best outcomes in the fight against skin cancer.

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SUN SAFETY

hear a diagnosis of melanoma, carcinomas or

SELF-EXAMS AND EARLY DETECTION

THE CARE YOU NEED WHEN AND WHERE YOU NEED IT. Find a Hancock physician of your own. Now accepting new patients for safer virtual and in-person appointments

801 N State St Greenfield, IN 46140