Prevention, Detection, and the Role of a Dermatologist

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, yet it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable especially when caught early. That’s why Skin Cancer Awareness Month, observed each May, is a crucial reminder to protect your skin, perform regular checks, and prioritize visits to a dermatologist.

Whether you're someone who soaks up the sun or prefers the shade, understanding the basics of skin cancer can help you make safer choices and protect the health of your skin year-round.

Protecting Your Skin Every Day

Most skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation either from the sun or tanning beds. The good news is there are simple, effective ways to reduce your risk:

  • Use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours (or more often if swimming or sweating).
  • Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
  • Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
  • Avoid tanning beds entirely. They emit harmful UV radiation that greatly increases your risk of melanoma.
  • Be mindful of reflection. Water, sand, and snow can reflect UV rays and intensify sun exposure.

Sun protection isn’t just for beach days—it’s an everyday habit that pays off in the long run not only protecting your skin from cancer but also slowing down signs of aging. 

How to Spot Skin Cancer Early

Skin cancer can show up in many forms, so it’s important to know your skin and examine it regularly. A good rule of thumb is to follow the “ABCDE” method for checking moles or spots:

  • Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other
  • Border – edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
  • Color – varies in shade or includes unusual tones (black, blue, red, etc.)
  • Diameter – larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
  • Evolving – changes in size, shape, or color over time

Other warning signs include:

  • New growths that don’t heal
  • Sores that bleed or crust
  • Rough, scaly patches
  • Wart-like growths or dome-shaped bumps

Monthly self-checks and taking note of any changes can help you catch skin issues early, when treatment is most effective.

Why Seeing a Dermatologist Matters

While self-checks are helpful, a board-certified dermatologist is your best resource for identifying, diagnosing, and treating skin cancer.

Here’s why dermatologists are essential:

  • Expert eye: They can detect subtle signs of skin cancer that the average person may miss.
  • Full-body screenings: These help catch abnormal growths in hard-to-see places like your scalp, back, or behind the ears.
  • Biopsies and treatments: If a suspicious spot is found, a dermatologist can perform a biopsy and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
  • Customized prevention advice: They’ll help you understand your individual risk factors and how to protect your skin accordingly.

If you have a history of sunburns, fair skin, many moles, or a family history of skin cancer, annual skin checks with a dermatologist are especially important.

Skin Safety Starts Now

Skin cancer is serious, but with the right knowledge and habits, it’s also highly preventable and treatable. This May, during Skin Cancer Awareness Month, take the time to:

  • Apply sunscreen daily
  • Perform a self-skin check
  • Schedule a dermatology appointment if you haven’t had one in the past year

Protecting your skin is a lifelong commitment, and the small steps you take today can have a big impact on your future health. If you are looking for a dermatologist, please consider Healthstar Dermatology. Dr. Joseph Prohaska and team are here to help. They are well trained in skin conditions and cancers along with the proper treatment.

The Healthstar Physicians network offers primary care and specialty services across East Tennessee. Our medical team is part of your community and because of that we are Near You, For You.