Each year, over 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States. In fact, it’s the most common form of cancer that people get. At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we know many of our Middlesex County patients are itching to get out on Connecticut beaches, so it’s a good time pass on some prevention tips in honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

  • Avoid direct exposure when the sun is at its strongest. That means during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. make sure there’s a source of shade nearby if you’re going to be outdoors for an extended period.
  • Use a good sunscreen. By good, we mean a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects your skin from the harmful effects of both UVA and UVB rays. It should have a minimum SPF of 15. If your fun in the sun includes water or excessive perspiration, a water-resistant variety is important.
  • Apply properly. Sunscreen only works when it’s covering your skin. Sounds obvious, but that means you need to apply carefully making sure no areas are missed. It’s also important to re-apply every two hours or after you’ve been swimming. Remember too, that sun damage can occur on short walks to work or running out to get lunch. Anytime your skin will be exposed, apply sunscreen before going out.
  • Never use tanning beds. Indoor tanning beds raise your risk for all kinds of cancer, even with a single-use. Using a tanning bed before the age of 35 increases your risk for melanoma by 75%.
  • Examine the skin on your feet (and the rest of your body) regularly. Watch for new moles, freckles, or lesions and monitor existing ones for changes.

Anytime that you notice an unusual symptom in your feet, it’s best to contact our Cromwell office by calling (860) 632-5499 and arranging a consultation. Our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas will examine your feet and to diagnose your condition and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

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