You hear about different cancers all the time, including breast cancer and colorectal cancer.

But did you know that skin cancer is actually the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States? Our team at AFC Urgent Care Farragut wants you to learn how to take action this summer so that you can still have fun in the sun while keeping your skin safe!

What Should I Know About Skin Cancer?

Although skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among Americans, it can be the most treatable when found early. Therefore, along with taking action to prevent skin cancer, it is also important to know what to look for when it comes to signs of skin cancer so that you can seek treatment as soon as possible.

Signs of Skin Cancer

• A mole that bleeds
• A large brownish spot with darker speckles
• Moles that change color, size or feel
• A lesion that hurts, itches and/or burns
• A place on your skin that has an irregular border
• A spot on your skin that appears red, pink, white, blue or blue-black

Can I Prevent Skin Cancer?

Of course, one of the best ways to treat skin cancer is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Therefore, you want to make sure you take action where you can when it comes to reducing your chances of skin cancer—now and in the future.

Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer

• Avoid tanning beds.
• Stay indoors when possible during the middle of the day, when the sun’s rays are most intense.
• Always wear sunscreen on all exposed skin.
• Check your skin regularly.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the scalp, ears, eyelids, hands and feet.
• Wear sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat when outside.

Did you get a really bad sunburn over the weekend? Visit AFC Urgent Care Farragut for a medical evaluation to ensure you are treating your burn properly!