Memorial Day weekend—the official kickoff of summer—is almost here, and at Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we know it’s an excellent time to recognize Skin Cancer Awareness Month. We want to share some helpful information about skin cancer with our Middlesex County patients before they begin enjoying beach and pool days.

 

Check Skin Regularly-Don't Forget Feet
 

Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer. More people are diagnosed with skin cancer in the United States each year than all other kinds of cancer combined. However, it’s also among the most treatable forms of the disease. The 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% if caught and treated early.

Early detection is one of the best weapons available in the fight against skin cancer. That’s why doctors recommend you examine the skin on your body carefully once a month and have a dermatologist exam annually. Many patients forget to think about the skin on their feet when it comes to skin cancer, but it is just as vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV rays as that on the rest of your body. There is an easy guide to looking for potentially harmful moles, freckles, and pigmented spots on your skin when examining your feet.

 

Use the A-B-C-D-E method to detect changes that may indicate developing skin cancer:

  • A—Asymmetry: if you were to draw a line down the center of the spot, the two sides do not look the same.

  • B—Border: potentially cancerous spots can have irregular, scalloped, or no clearly defined borders.

  • C—Color: mole appears to have several colors or shade in it, such as red, blue, white or tan, brown and black; colors may be mottled.

  • D—Diameter: anything over 6mm or about the width of a pencil eraser.

  • E—Evolving: the spot appears to be changing in size, shape, or color since the last time you examined it or is markedly different from other spots you have.

When you look over your feet, be sure to examine the entire foot, including between your toes and your toenails. If you notice any of the above changes or are unsure about a 'spot, it’s best to contact our Cromwell office by calling 860-632-5499 to arrange an appointment with our experienced podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, to determine if further evaluation is required.

Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.

Call Today (860) 632-5499

162 West St Ste K Cromwell, CT 06416