The ABCD's of Skin Cancer

Did you know that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer? Did you also know that it doesn't matter whether you've spent a little or a lot of time tanning, have blond hair or brown, are 30 years old or 60 — you could be at risk for melanoma, the rarest but most dangerous type of skin cancer? The good news is that skin cancer grows slowly, so it's relatively easy to cure when you catch it in its early stages. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests you keep an eye on any moles on your body, and ask your doctor to check moles for the following:

A: Asymmetry — when one side of the mole is not shaped like the other.
B: Border irregularity — a scalloped or poorly defined border rather than a round edge.
C: Color — a mole that has more than one color (for example, a combination of tan, brown, black, red, or blue).
D: Diameter — a mole that is larger around than a pencil eraser.

While most moles pose no harm, it's a good idea to get a skin exam periodically just to be on the safe side. Don't forget, the best protection is prevention. Be sure to put on sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher every day — not just when you hit the beach! Sure, a beach-bronzed body may look good now, but the risk of skin cancer — not to mention premature aging — isn't worth it! If you're not blessed with natural color and just can't live without a tan, reach for sunless tanning products or simply learn to love that porcelain complexion. Remember, healthy is beautiful!