Sutter North Medical Foundation Helps Fight Skin Cancer “Epidemic” on Melanoma Monday.

Melanoma Monday
Know How To Prevent Skin Cancer!
by Robert Peppercorn, M.D.

I have devoted my life to the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases.  In my opinion, the highest professional priority for a dermatologist like me is to diagnose malignant melanoma in its earliest stage before the cancer has a chance to spread. Since melanoma is so difficult to treat once it has spread, it is vital that we find the changing mole or melanoma in its smallest stage.  Most melanomas can be cured if found early so it is very important for patients to know the warning signs of melanoma in order to prevent advancement of the disease.  Prevention with sun avoidance and sun protection is also critically important.
Pictured is Dr. Robert Peppercorn, local dermatologist

Consistency is Key in Preventing the Disease and Protecting Your Health

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. Diagnoses for skin cancer also far exceed all other cancers combined. In recognition of Melanoma Monday (May 1), Sutter North Medical Foundation is offering several skin cancer safety tips.

“Today, we’re in the midst of a skin cancer epidemic. More than one million people in the U.S. get skin cancer every year,” said Robert Peppercorn, M.D. of the Advanced Dermatology and Laser Center in Yuba City. “Protecting yourself from the sun can save your life.”

Skin cancers are divided into non-melanomas and melanomas. Non-melanomas (usually basal cell and squamous cell cancers) are the most common cancers of the skin. Melanoma accounts for only about 4 percent of skin cancer cases, but causes the most skin cancer deaths.

You don’t have to sunbathe every day to be affected by the sun. Whether you go for a drive or just walk to the mailbox, you’re being exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. If you don’t protect your skin from the sun, you increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

“Most Americans don’t protect themselves as well as they should from UV rays,” said Dr. Peppercorn. “But when followed consistently, sun-protective practices can prevent skin cancer.”

Protect yourself from skin damage:

Although people with fair skin should be especially careful in the sun, African-Americans and other darker skinned people can get skin cancer, too. In fact, a recent study showed a significant increase in the rate of melanoma among Hispanics in California.

Check your skin for signs of skin cancer. Talk with your doctor if any moles or birthmarks change in appearance – shape, size or color.

UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid being in the sun for long periods during this time and apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Learn more about skin cancer and how to prevent the disease in the next edition of Sutter North Medical Foundation and Sutter Health’s magazine Your Health. Also, the May edition of the Your Health television program will feature sunscreen tips and airs on KCRA Channel 3, Sunday, May 21 at 11 a.m.