HERE COMES the SUN

Sue Fraase, of Horace, fondly remembers her “sun goddess” days in her 20s. “The heat and sunshine just felt so good,” Fraase says.

When she was younger, Fraase had several moles removed and performed regular skin checks with her doctor. In her early 50s, Fraase noticed a mole on her upper arm that seemed to change and brought it up to her doctor. To be safe, the mole was biopsied. “I got a call saying it was melanoma, a very serious form of skin cancer,” shares Fraase. “I was shocked, and my mind went right to the worst-case scenarios.”

Luckily for Fraase, the melanoma had not spread. The mole was surgically removed, and no further treatment was necessary. “It was a pretty deep incision so that they were sure they got it all,” Fraase explains. “I felt such relief to know that it was possible to surgically remove the melanoma and I wouldn’t have to do any kind of cancer treatments.” Today, Fraase continues to be melanoma free.

A er the removal, Fraase underwent regular skin checks every three months. Later, they were extended to six months, and now, a few years out from her diagnosis, Fraase continues with yearly skin checks.

“Prevention is really important and early detection can be the difference between life and death,” Fraase says. “If this mole had gone unchecked much longer, I would have a very di erent story to tell, one that might not have had such a good outcome.”

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when melanocytes, the cells that give the skin its tan or brown color, start to grow out of control.

While melanoma is considered much less common than some other types of skin cancers, it is more dangerous because it’s much more likely to spread to other organs if not treated early.

Early detection is key

Experts agree that skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) and Dr. Daniel Kim, dermatologist at Essentia Health, suggest performing regular skin exams.

To do this, follow the ABCDEs of skin cancer.

» ASYMMETRY: one half of a mole does not match the other

» BORDER: the edges are irregular, ragged, notched or blurred

» COLOR: the color is not consistent and may include different shades of brown or black, or sometimes pink, white, or blue

» DIAMETER: the spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about ¼ inch – the size of a pencil eraser)

» EVOLVING: the mole is changing in size, shape or color

Self-exams are recommended once a month, and Kim also suggests those at high risk for melanoma do annual skin checks with a dermatologist. Dermatologists have special equipment like a dermatoscope, a handheld device that uses light and magni cation to give a much clearer picture of your skin than just a visual exam.

“UV exposure, the presence of many moles, fair skin, freckles, light hair and those with a family history of melanoma are all at a higher risk of developing melanoma,” explains Kim. In addition, a history of melanoma or other skin cancers, a weakened immune system, and age all contribute to your risk.

SPF 30 or higher

One of the best ways to limit risk of UV exposure is to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you are outside, regardless the season. “The best sunscreen is the one you’ll wear,” recommends Kim. “And remember, you must reapply sunscreen every couple of hours and more o en if you are sweating or swimming.”

Kim also shares a general rule that one ounce of sunscreen is about the right amount for an adult to use. UV-blocking clothing along with hats, sunglasses and avoiding the sun’s strongest rays (generally between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.) can go a long way to reduce your risk of melanoma.

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT any skin issues or want to schedule a skin exam, contact the dermatology team at Essentia Health. Call 701-364-8900 to schedule your visit today.