May is often celebrated as the best time of year to go outdoors and enjoy nature. It is also known as Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention month. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the country partly because people of all ages are exposed to its main cause practically every single day: ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
Due to the often publicized dangers of direct sunlight, some people avoid forgoing the great outdoors altogether. While it is true that the best defense against harmful UV rays is to stay out of the sun, it does not mean that you and your loved ones should miss out on enjoying outdoor activities during the warmer days of spring and summer. Instead, it is advisable to take simple precautions every time you go outside.
It is important to understand that every time you expose your skin to the sunlight, you are at risk of sunburn. Sunburns are a known risk factor for developing the most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma. From your scalp to your toes, protect exposed skin with sunscreen and reapply often to minimize the risk of sunburn. The top of your head needs protection, so don’t be afraid or embarrassed to wear a wide-brimmed hat. Unfortunately, one’s hair does not offer much protection.
Common signs of skin cancers include various pigmented marks, moles, and lumps that gradually get larger over time, scaly patches or sores that do not heal, or irregular marks that are uneven in color.
Fortunately, skin cancers, both basal cell and melanoma, can be cured when diagnosed and treated early on. If your healthcare provider failed to diagnose your or a loved one’s skin cancer in a timely fashion, the disease may worsen and require costly treatment or lead to life-threatening progression of the disease process. If you believe you have suffered from medical malpractice surrounding a failure to timely diagnose and/or treat cancer, call Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari. Through a no-cost consultation, you can receive information regarding your rights and legal options. Our number is 973-845-4421.