Watch Freckles to Catch Skin Cancer Early

Next month is National Skin Cancer Month, and it couldn’t come at a better time than right before summer. Since this type of cancer is so common, it’s important to protect yourself and take the time to notice any changes in or on your body.

There are two different categories: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanomas are less common, but are more life threatening. Here is what to look out for in your moles or freckles:

• Asymmetry—the sides of the mole don’t match.
• Borders—the borders are notched, not straight.
• Color—it’s an abnormal color such as red or blue.
• Diameter—they are more than 6mm around.
• Evolving—they change over time, becoming larger, crusty, or bloody.

If you notice any of these symptoms you should call your doctor right away to get it looked at and possibly biopsied.

It is so vitally important to protect yourself from skin cancer. Sun exposure is the most common culprit of the development of this condition. Limiting the amount of time you spend in the sun is a good defense, but it’s not very practical all the time. If you go out in the sun be sure to cover yourself up with hats and sunglasses. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher if you’ll be outside for a long period of time. Take notice of changes in your body by thoroughly checking yourself (even places like your feet). Lastly, get yourself looked at by a doctor at least once a year, because they might notice something you overlooked.

Call Dr. Marco Vargas and Dr. Joyce Lee at 888-784-5335 or schedule an appointment online. At Foot and Ankle Associates in Houston we can recognize signs of cancer on your feet and treat them to keep your lower limbs healthy.
Photo Credit: Michal Marcol via FreeDigitalPhotos.net