© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Melanoma Recognizing Skin Cancer Prepared by Don Hall, DrPH, CHES Wellsource Inc.

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Skin Cancer Melanoma Warning Signs Asymmetry – different halves look different Borders – irregular, shaggy, or ill-formed Color – not the same color throughout the lesion Diameter – larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch, about the size of a pencil eraser) Evolving – changing in size, shape, color, symptoms (itching, tenderness), or surface (especially bleeding)

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Wear protective clothing – a hat and clothing that protects arms, legs, and the rest of the body Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Use sunscreen (SPF 15+) when exposed to strong sunlight for over 10 minutes Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Avoid tanning booths and sun bathing Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Be especially careful with children as early excess sun exposure before 18 greatly increases risk Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Wear sunglass – melanoma can occur in the eyes Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Examine your skin regularly -- see your doctor if you think you see warning signs (ABCDEs) Prevention

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. Summary Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM Wear protective clothing – a hat and clothing that protects arms, legs, and the rest of the body Use sunscreen (SPF 15+) when exposed to strong sunlight for over 10 minutes Avoid tanning booths and sun bathing Be especially careful with children as early excess sun exposure before 18 greatly increases risk Wear sunglass – melanoma can occur in the eyes Examine your skin regularly -- see your doctor if you think you see warning signs (ABCDEs) Prevention JAMA Dec. 8, 2004

© 2005, Wellsource, Inc. END Wellsource Institute for Healthy Living Tails End