The ABCs of skin cancer in Santa Rosa, CA, define the main characteristics of skin cancer. Their importance cannot be overstated. By knowing the ABCs, you are better able to detect early and even prevent skin cancer. If you detect something concerning, you can contact Dr. Khanh Truong and Dr. Henry DeGroot of NorCal Dermatology.
Early detection
It is important to know what to look for when you are doing your monthly exam. Yes, monthly exam. You should be getting a yearly exam from your dermatologist, but in between, you should be looking at your body naked in a mirror. With early detection, most skin cancer is survivable, which is why you need to be on the lookout at all times.
Prevention
Ultraviolet rays are the most common cause of not only wrinkles but skin cancer. But, unless you live in a cave and never come out, you are going to be exposed to sunlight. What you can do is to make sure that you protect your skin as much as possible. Wear a hat and sunglasses and use sunscreen. Try to avoid the noonday sun and never use a tanning bed or sunlamp. All of these can help you to avoid skin cancer in Santa Rosa, CA.
Asymmetry
When something is asymmetrical it is not the same on both sides, there is no balance. That is what makes any sort of lesion or mole a cause for concern. Not every asymmetrical mole is cancerous, but it is worth having it looked at since it might be melanoma.
Border
A mole with an irregular border can be something that should get your attention in the monthly exam. The border can look notched, scalloped, or jagged. It won't look like a normal mole or skin lesion.
Color
Cancerous moles often have unusual colors that make them stand out from other moles. They are not usually the same color all over. They may be different shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
Beyond the ABCs there are also D for diameter and E for evolving. A cancerous mole may be about the size of the eraser on a pencil. Evolving means it will change over time. It may change color, size, and diameter. Having an evolving mole or lesion is as good a reason as you will get to see your dermatologist today.
For questions and concerns about skin cancer in Santa Rosa, CA, contact Dr. Truong and Dr. DeGroot of NorCal Dermatology. Give the office a call at (707) 527-9517 to make an appointment for a consultation.