Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. and when detected early is highly curable. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly five million people are treated for it each year. It is estimated that 7,650 people will die from Melanoma, the deadliest type, in 2022. 90% of all skin cancer is caused by Ultraviolet Radiation and sun exposure. Finding it early, when it’s small and has not spread, makes skin cancer much easier to treat.
Get in the routine of regular skin self-exams. Become familiar with your skin from your head to your toes. People who work outside, have a family history of skin cancer, light skin that freckles or burns easily, or red or blond hair are more at risk. Skin cancer presents in many different ways, including:
• A new, expanding, or changing growth, spot, or bump on the skin
• A sore that bleeds and/or doesn’t heal after several weeks
• A rough or scaly red patch, which might crust or bleed
• A wart-like growth
• A mole (or other spot on the skin) that’s new or changing in size, shape, or color
• A mole with an odd shape, irregular borders, or areas of different colors
If something looks and feels different, have it checked by a physician or dermatologist. Having a skin cancer screening is simple and one of our best tools in spotting cancer early.
You can also take advantage of the 31st annual Free Skin Cancer Screening Event at the CHRISTUS Cancer Treatment Center, located on the CHRISTUS Highland campus. This event is in partnership with Dermatology & Skin Surgery team. It is slated for Monday, May 23 from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Screening takes just a few minutes and does require pre-registration. Slots will fill quickly, call 1-844-CHRISTUS (247-4788). Deadline to register is Monday, May 23 at 9:00 a.m.
Darcey Pavlick, Director of CHRISTUS Cancer Treatment Center
