Skin Cancer What Are the Risks?

Did you know skin cancer is the most common type of cancer? If you spend a lot of time out in the sun, skin cancer could affect you too. You need to know ways to prevent skin cancer. Our dermatologists can help.

Our dermatologists at Ocala Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center provide comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer. We have two convenient office locations in Ocala and Summerfield to serve you.

What You Need to Know About Skin Cancer

The most common cause of skin cancer is excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays, typically from the sun. There are other causes of skin cancer, including toxic chemical exposure to your skin.

You are at greater risk of developing skin cancer from UV radiation if you have:

• Light skin and freckles
• A past history of skin cancer
• A family history of skin cancer

One way to help prevent skin cancer is to perform a self-check of your skin regularly. You need to look for:

• Large moles that have changed in appearance
• Irregular moles that look different from other moles or growths
• Recurring moles that have grown back after the previous removal
• Itchy, burning, or bleeding moles
• Scaly patches of red, irritated skin that don’t resolve

If you notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, it’s time to visit a dermatologist for a skin examination. Our dermatologists may recommend removing the entire mole or taking a small tissue sample and sending it to a lab for a biopsy. A biopsy can detect cancerous cells, so skin cancer can be treated quickly.

To prevent skin cancer, it’s helpful to follow a few simple tips like these:

• Avoid using tanning booths
• Use an SPF of at least 30 every day
• Use an SPF of at least 50 if you are outside for long periods
• Use an SPF of at least 50 if you are light-skinned and sunburn easily
• Stay out of direct sunlight between 10 AM to 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest

Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer

To schedule an appointment for a skin cancer screening, please call our Ocala office at (352) 237-2322, or our Summerfield office at (352) 347-4500.