May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

SCHAUMBURG, ILL. – In recognition of Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month®, the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) releases a new public service advertisement (PSA) campaign and news, and coordinates several activities to raise awareness about skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors
When detected early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated. In fact, melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is highly curable when found and treated early. The five-year survival rate for people whose melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes is 99 percent. However, dermatologists caution that finding skin cancer in its earliest stages requires a commitment by individuals to perform regular skin self-examinations and to report any suspicious moles or unusual changes to their dermatologist immediately.
Now, new research shows that involving a partner in the self-examination process, particularly one with whom an individual has a good relationship, makes it more likely that self screening will happen and can improve the early detection of skin cancer which could lead to a better prognosis.
In an article entitled "Examination of mediating variables in a partner assistance intervention designed to increase performance of skin self-examination," published in the March 2007 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologist June K. Robinson, MD, FAAD, professor of clinical dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, presented findings that patients at high risk for melanoma benefited when a partner was involved in their skin self-exams. Specifically, the patients who were assisted by a partner in performing skin self-exams were more likely to follow a regular detection routine than those who relied solely on themselves for motivation.
Monday, May 5, is Melanoma Monday® and the official launch of Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month®. For more information about skin cancer, please visit the SkinCancerNet section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
General Health Clinic encourages you to speak with your healthcare professional with questions or concerns regarding skin cancer. The Clinic welcomes most major insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid. Payments by cash, credit cards, and debit cards are accepted. The clinic is located at the junction of highways 148 and JJ in Hopkins, Missouri. Appointments can be made by calling 660-778-3209.