Skin Cancer Prevention for the Whole Family

As a family medicine physician assistant, I often get the opportunity to talk with patients about ways to stay healthy, from managing blood pressure to getting enough sleep. One topic that comes up more often than you might think is skin cancer. It's one of the most common cancers in the United States, but there's good news! When caught early, it's also one of the most preventable and treatable.

Skin cancer doesn't just affect older adults or people who spend their days at the beach. While not as common, children and teens can get skin cancer. That's why prevention is something we should all be thinking about every day.

The Basics: Everyday Prevention

Your skin protects you, so make sure you're protecting your skin too! The best way to do so is to make sun safety a part of your daily routine. This includes:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day – yes, even on cloudy days.
• Reapply every two hours if you're outside, and more often if you're swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing whenever possible.
• Utilize accessories such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when out in the sun.
• Don't forget to seek shade during peak sun hours – typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Know What to Look For

One of the most important things you can do is keep an eye on your skin. If you notice a new spot, or a mole that's changing, itching, or bleeding, it's time to get it checked. We use the ABCDE rule to help identify suspicious spots:

• Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
• Border: Edges are irregular or blurred
• Color: Multiple colors or uneven shading
• Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
• Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color

If you're not sure, don't wait – bring it up at your next visit. We'd much rather check something early than miss an opportunity to catch a problem when it's still small.

Skin health is part of your overall well-being. If your family clinician finds something concerning, we work closely with our trusted dermatologists to make sure you get the care you need. For patients with risk factors – like fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of skin cancer – we may recommend annual full-body skin checks.

It's never too early to start protecting your skin! For adults and kids alike, learning to wear sunscreen and hats now can help prevent problems later. Every step you take today can make a difference in your future health.

So next time you're heading outside, take a moment to protect your skin. It's a simple habit that can have a big impact – not only for you, but for your whole family.