VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System (VCB)

Dermatology assessment photo.

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

In recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the team at the Dermatology Clinic at the Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System wants you to take steps to protect your skin and your health. 

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and each year there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung, and colon.  One in five Americans will develop skin cancer.

Anyone, regardless of skin color, can get skin cancer.  Skin cancer develops primarily on areas of sun-exposed skin, including the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs.  However, it can also form on areas that rarely see the light of day.  It is important to be aware of these risk factors and take the necessary measures to prevent skin cancer. 

Prevention Tips: 

Shade - Seek the shade, especially between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M. Still use sunscreen or wear protective clothing even when you are in the shade.

Hats - Wear a hat with a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears, and the back of your neck.  Avoid straw hats with holes that let sunlight through.  If you wear a baseball cap, you should also protect your ears and the back of your neck by wearing clothing that covers those areas, using sunscreen or by staying in the shade.

Sunglasses - Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays, reduce the risk of cataracts and they protect the tender skink around your eyes from sun exposure.

Sunscreen - The sun’s UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes.  Use a broad spectrum (UVA & UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher.  Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to entire body 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating

Examine your skin- perform a head-to-toe exam once a month. Use a bright light, full length mirror, a hand mirror, and chairs/stools. If you notice any worrisome spots, call your doctor.

See your physician- get a professional skin exam at least once a year.

Further information can be found at www.aad.org (American Academy of Dermatology) or www.skincancer.org.