May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month

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At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know our Nature Coast patients get more sun than people in other parts of the country year-round, but as summer approaches and the rays get even stronger, it’s a good time to talk about how to prevent skin cancer.

Each year more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than all other types of cancer combined. The good news is when diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate for melanomas is 99%. Since the vast majority of skin cancers are caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun, it makes sense to focus on ways to protect yourself when outdoors.

Sun Savvy Protection

The skin on your feet, when exposed to the sun, is just as vulnerable as the rest of your body. While we often are more conscientious about sun protection when we’re spending a whole day at the beach or pool, it’s important to take precautions daily if you are outside. Even short periods spent walking the dog, shopping, or biking to work can cause sunburn and sun damage. Below are some tips to help you stay safe:

  • During the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun is strongest, look for shade wherever possible. Walking on the shady side of the street, sitting under an umbrella, or even a leafy tree will reduce (but not eliminate) the amount of UV rays you’re exposed to.

  • Apply and reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF-15 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen usually protects you for about two hours but can be less if you go in the water or are sweating excessively.

  • Sun shines through the windows. Although most car windshields are treated to protect the driver from UVA rays, the side, back, and sunroof windows usually are not. Windows on buses and trains also permit UVA rays to come through, so be prepared when you’re commuting or traveling with protective clothing or sunscreen.

It’s important to inspect the skin on your feet regularly. Look over your whole foot, top and bottom, and don’t forget the spaces between your toes. If you notice any new spots or freckles or existing ones seem to be changing in size, shape, or color, contact our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) and Hudson (727-868-2128) offices so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine your skin and determine if further testing is necessary.

Cancer, General HealthPasco-Hernando Foot & Ankleskin cancer, foot health