As summer winds down, it’s crucial to prioritize skin cancer screenings and practice sun safety to protect your health. At Modern Family Medicine, we’re committed to helping our community stay healthy—whether you’re concerned about skin changes or seeking trusted hypertension treatment doctors in Duluth.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but when detected early, it is highly treatable. A skin cancer screening typically involves a visual examination of your skin by a healthcare provider, who looks for abnormal moles, spots, or lesions. The most common method uses the “ABCDE” rule:

• Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
• Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
• Color: Varied from one area to another.
• Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color over time.

If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy may be performed for a definitive diagnosis.

Who Should Get Screened?

• Everyone should be familiar with their skin and report any changes to a healthcare provider.
• Men over 50 are at higher risk for melanoma and should be especially vigilant.
• Those with a personal or family history of skin cancer, or with many moles, should have regular professional screenings.

Protecting your skin from UV rays is the best way to prevent skin cancer. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Avoid tanning beds, which increase skin cancer risk.

Regular self-exams help you notice changes early. Use a body mole map to track spots and moles, and bring any concerns to your provider. If you notice anything new, changing, itching, or bleeding, schedule a professional evaluation promptly.

At Modern Family Medicine, we believe in a holistic approach to health. If you’re managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, search for “hypertension treatment doctors Duluth” to help you stay on top of both your cardiovascular and skin health. Some blood pressure medications can increase sun sensitivity, making sun protection even more important for our patients.

• Schedule your skin cancer screening—early detection saves lives.
• Practice daily sun safety to reduce your risk.
• If you need comprehensive care, including access to hypertension treatment doctors in Duluth, contact Modern Family Medicine for an appointment.

Protect your skin, protect your health—enjoy the rest of your summer safely.

Modern Family Medicine: Your partners in lifelong wellness, from skin cancer screenings to hypertension treatments in Duluth.