"How can I tell if a mole on my back is dangerous?"
Skin cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in the United States. Melanoma, the most dangerous kind of skin cancer, is one of the most common cancers in people younger than 30. 90% of melanomas can be attributed to sun exposure.
These are the warning signs for melanoma:
- Asymmetry: one half of the spot does not match the other half.
- Border irregularity: Normal moles are round or oval. The borders of a melanoma may be uneven or notched.
- Color: Common moles are usually one color throughout. Melanomas may have several colors or an irregular pattern of colors.
- Diameter: Common moles are generally less than 1/4 inch in diameter (the diameter of a pencil eraser). Melanomas are often larger.
It is a good idea to watch any mole carefully. The most important warning sign is a change in any of the characteristics listed above.
If you have a suspicious mole, schedule an appointment with an SHS provider . They will examine it for you and perform a biopsy if necessary.
For more information, visit the Skin Cancer Foundation.
"I know I should wear sunscreen but I never know how much to put on. How much do you recommend?"
Sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher provides good defense against the sun's UV rays. Apply at least 1 oz. (approx. a full shot glass) 15-20 minutes before going outdoors to all sun-exposed skin and reapply at least every two hours, and more often after swimming, perspiring heavily, or toweling off.
You should cover up as often as possible with protective clothing when outdoors. Choose comfortable clothes made of tightly woven fabrics you can't see through when held up to a light. It is also a good idea to cover your head with a wide brim hat, shading your face, neck, and ears. Wrap-around sunglasses with 100% UV absorption provide the best protection for the eyes and surrounding skin.