affected areas. And, for the most part, this resolves the problem with an office visit.
Deadly Melanoma The most invasive and dangerous is melanoma, a dark or black-pigmented area that metastasizes quickly, requiring immediate attention and often specialist care. “This can appear anywhere on the body, including the retina,” Dr. West said, noting that if it’s detected early, surgical removal is usually successful. If the disease spreads, diagnosis is not as optimistic. “It’s the number-one cancer killer for young people,” he said. Fortunately, genomic research is helping to find answers, and new screening methods are being introduced, he added. In addition, the FDA is becoming more and more vigilant, requiring black-label warnings on product labeling and in promotional materials such as “Attention: This sunlamp product should not be used on persons under the age of 18 years.” Also required are special controls and meeting an electronic product performance standard.
New Rules The FDA is also considering two proposed rules and is still accepting consumer input. The first would restrict use of sunlamp products to those 18 and older. In addition, it also would require indoor tanning facilities to inform adult users about the health risks of indoor tanning and to obtain a signed risk acknowledgement. The second rule would require that sunlamp manufacturers and tanning facilities improve the safety of these devices, such as limiting the amount of light allowed through protective eyewear. Dr. West and his associates at Arrowhead Health Centers provide patients information about the beds and recommend against their use. “I would not allow my daughter to use them,” he said. “People are really paying twice for services at tanning salons. First, there’s the price of admission and second, the high risk of skin cancer going out the door,” he added. “And that’s a very high price for a tan.”
Ear, Nose, and Throat Issues? West Valley ENT Can Help. Choose West Valley ENT for helpful, friendly, personal service that will have you feeling better in no time. • • • • •
Adult & pediatric head and neck disease treatment Allergy testing and treatment Hearing aid clinic In-office balloon sinuplasty Sinus and temporal bone CT scans available in office Dr. Brian Rizzo, DO
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Two convenient Phoenix (31stlocations Ave. and Bell Rd.) Phoenix (31st Ave. and Bell and Rd.) Bell Rd.) Surprise (148th Ave. Surprise (148th Ave. and Bell Rd.)
Call Today (602) 892-4866 843-4844 Summer 2017 • Healthstyle Magazine
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