Last year, I blogged about my experience with being diagnosed with Melanoma. Since that post, I have learned so much information and I always feel like I need to share and inform people of this valuable information. This information is available for anybody on websites and handouts from your doctor. I'm reminded almost everyday of what to do to prevent or look for signs of Melanoma by emails, brochures and the scare on my back!
Today I thought I would share:
The ABCDEs of Melanoma
Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the skin. Ask someone for help when checking your skin, specially in hard to see places. If you notice a mole different from others, or that changes, enlarges, itches, or bleeds (even if it is small), you should see a dermatologist.
How to check for spots:
Checking your skin means taking not of all the spots on your body, from moles to freckles to age spots. Remember, some moles are black, red, or even blue. If you see any kind of change on one of your spots, you should have a dermatologist check it out.
1. Examine body front and back in mirror, then right and left sides, arm raised.
2. Bend elbows, look carefully at forearms, back of upper arms, and palms.
3. Look at backs of legs and feet, spaces between toes, and soles.
4. Examine back of neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Part hair and lift.
5. Finally, check back and buttocks with a hand mirror.
All information is from the American Academy of Dermatology
