Dr. Gold's Tips for May Skin Cancer Awareness Month

In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May, we wanted to share with readers regarding Dr. Michael Gold’s expertise so you can both prevent and detect skin cancer. By following these simple guidelines and of course visiting your dermatologist for an annual skin exam, you can keep skin cancer at bay.

Prevent:

· The best defense for preventing skin cancer is to stay out of the sun and to definitely avoid tanning beds. Remember, there is no safe tanning bed.

· Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ is a must. There are sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB rays, but since the FDA is still figuring out how best to classify them, anything over an SPF 30 and that has UVA and UVB protection is your best defense.

Detect:

· If the mole or spot itches, bleeds, or burns have it examined by a dermatologist.

· If a mole changes size, shape, or color, have it examined by a dermatologist.

· The ABCD rule for melanoma still applies today: A = asymmetry, B = irregular borders, C= change of color, and D= diameter greater than the size of a dime. Any of these signs should prompt someone to a board-certified dermatologist who can best determine whether a biopsy or removal of the lesion is indicated.