© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Melanoma Recognizing Skin Cancer

Prepared by Don Hall, DrPH, CHESWellsource Inc.

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Skin Cancer Melanoma

Warning Signs

Asymmetry – different halves look different

Borders – irregular, shaggy, or ill-formed

Color – not the same color throughout the lesion

Diameter – larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch, about the size of a pencil eraser)

Evolving – changing in size, shape, color, symptoms (itching, tenderness), or surface (especially bleeding)

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Wear protective clothing – a hat and clothing that protects arms, legs, and the rest of the body

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Use sunscreen (SPF 15+) when exposed to strong sunlight for over 10 minutes

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Avoid tanning booths and sun bathing

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Be especially careful with children as early excess sun exposure before 18 greatly increases risk

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Wear sunglass – melanoma can occur in the eyes

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Examine your skin regularly -- see your doctor if you think you see warning signs (ABCDEs)

Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

Summary• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially

between the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM• Wear protective clothing – a hat and clothing

that protects arms, legs, and the rest of the body• Use sunscreen (SPF 15+) when exposed to

strong sunlight for over 10 minutes• Avoid tanning booths and sun bathing• Be especially careful with children as early

excess sun exposure before 18 greatly increases risk

• Wear sunglass – melanoma can occur in the eyes • Examine your skin regularly -- see your doctor if

you think you see warning signs (ABCDEs)

Prevention

JAMA Dec. 8, 2004

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc.

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