Regional West Participates in #YourSkinNeedsYou Initiative for Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Regional West has joined the annual “Your Skin Needs You” campaign, a statewide effort organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) to heighten awareness of skin cancer screening during Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May.

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable cancers. Melanoma of the skin, the most malignant form of skin cancer, is the fifth most common cancer in Nebraska. Incidence and mortality rates of melanoma are higher in Nebraska compared to overall U.S. rates.

There are certain factors that put Nebraskans at higher risk for skin cancer. When people spend time outdoors without protecting their skin, they are exposing themselves to skin damage and sunburn which increases risk. Having just five or more sunburns doubles the risk of developing melanoma. People with blue and green eyes, blonde or red hair, and skin that freckles or burns easily are also at risk.

The most common sign of skin cancer is change in the skin, which can include a new growth, a change in a mole, or a sore that doesn’t heal. For melanoma, it’s important to look for asymmetry in a mole or spot; an irregular or jagged border; uneven color; diameter of the mole or spot, and evolution, which means watching for changes over weeks or months.

Practicing consistent sun protection can greatly reduce the chance of skin cancer. It’s important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, as well as protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses to help protect the skin. People should also avoid artificial sources of UV exposure, such as tanning beds and sunlamps.

Regional West physician John Blomstedt, III, DO, emphasized the importance of using sun protection when outdoors.

“Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and wearing sunscreen is one of the best and easiest ways to keep our skin protected,” he said. “It helps protect our skin’s appearance and health at all ages, and when used regularly it helps prevent sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer. If you are going to be out in the sun for long periods of time, I recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 or higher to be applied every 90 minutes. Remember to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, too.”

Regional West Physicians Clinic-Skin Clinic & Medical Aesthetic Center offers skin cancer diagnosis and treatment. The clinic also specializes in treating a wide variety of skin disorders, such as psoriasis, rosacea, eczema, and more. To schedule an appointment or learn more, call the clinic at 308-630-2595 or visit RWHS.org/services and click on Skin Clinic & Medical Aesthetic Center. For more information on Regional West’s Cancer Services, visit RWHS.org/services/Cancer Services or call 308-630-1348.