www.nonpareilonline.com
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
1C
VNA growing with demand of services Page 2C
Warm weather keeps local lawn care companies busy Page 6C
Midwest Dermatology warns about sun exposure TIM JOHNSON Staff Writer tjohnson@nonpareilonline.com (712) 325-5750
“The key to surviving skin cancer is to find it as early as possible,” Midwest Dermatology Clinic’s Web site states. “Self-exams of all areas of the skin, especially those exposed to sunlight, and professional examinations by your physician are most effective.” May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month and comes during the season when most people start spending a lot of time in the sun. “We treat thousands of skin cancers each year in our practice,” said John R. Luckasen, M.D., of Midwest Dermatology. “The incidence of skin cancer is on the rise, as people are spending more time in the sun – both recreationally and professionally. The sun is the cause of most skin cancers, which means that people can take preventative steps to avoid developing it. It is often the cumulative effect of many years of sun exposure, although severe sunburns can lead to the development of deadly malignant melanoma. But most people simply don’t take the proper steps for prevention because it is not immediately apparent that they are causing changes in their skin that will lead to cancer.” “While the main demographic of patients with skin cancer would be middle aged and older, skin cancer can and does develop on younger adults,” he said. “People should start by knowing the warning signs of skin cancer and examining their own skin on a monthly basis.” Warning signs ■ A growth that is new or increases in size. ■ A spot that itches, crusts, scabs or bleeds. ■ An open sore or wound that does not heal ■ A mole or growth that is waxy, black, multicolored, has irregular borders or
grows in an asymmetrical pattern. When a person sees any of the above warning signs, an appointment should be made to see a dermatologist, Luckasen said. It is important to seek immediate treatment: The earlier a skin cancer is caught, the easier it is to treat and better the results will be. When caught early, skin cancer is very treatable and usually easy for the patient. If a person has a history of skin cancer, or has a family member who has had skin cancer, or if your dermatologist tells you that there are certain risk factors present for developing skin cancer, it is a good idea to see your dermatologist yearly. Nonmelanoma skin cancers – basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma – are the most common forms of skin cancer we diagnose. There are more than 1 million new cases of basal cell carciSubmitted photo Clockwise from top left, noma diagnosed each year Bert C. Frichot III, M.D., in the United States. The Jason S. Papenfuss, M.D. key cause for both basal cell and John R. Luckasen, and squamous cell carcinoM.D. are on staff at Mid- mas is ultraviolet light, west Dermatology. specifically, light from the sun. “Our primary method of treating basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma is to use a technique known as Mohs Microscopic Skin Cancer surgery,” Luckasen said. “Mohs surgery involves both the surgical
excision of the skin cancer and a microscopic exam of the surgical margins to ensure that all skin cancer cells have been removed. “While we do not see as many cases of malignant melanoma, it is by far the most serious form of skin cancer,” he said. “Left untreated for very long, this cancer can spread through the body, affecting other key organs and may threaten the life of the patient. Fortunately, diligent self-examination can reveal the early warning signs of malignant melanoma, when the cancer is contained in just the skin, allowing for surgical removal and a full recovery. Patients with moles that are changing in size, color, shape, have uneven borders or color, or are asymmetrical should seek the consultation of a dermatologist immediately.” The incidence of malignant melanoma is increasing at about 5 percent around the world,” he said. “About 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year; and while it is a much less common form of skin cancer than nonmelanoma cancers, it accounts for more than 75 percent of skin cancerrelated death. “When we see malignant melanoma patients, they come to our office in various staging,” Luckasen said. “The important fact is that patients should know the warning signs of melanoma and not be afraid to seek immediate treatment if they are suspicious of a mole or growth that has changed. “Usually, a wide excision around the visual part of the tumor and the tissue is sent away for pathology. In addition, we may send them to a cancer doctor. The cancer is staged via pathology and consultation with the cancer doctor.” Prevention ■ Liberally apply sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 to exposed skin before going out in the sun. Reapply frequently. ■ Avoid excess sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the ultraviolet light from the sun is at it’s strongest. ■ Wear protective clothing including long sleeved shirts and a wide brimmed hat whenever out in the sun ■ Avoid tanning beds - there is no such thing as a safe tan. Instead, choose a spray-on tan for a bronzed look without the danger of ultraviolet light. ■ Examine your skin regularly for warning signs of skin cancer. See a physician for any suspicions. If you have a history of skin cancer, schedule regular check-ups. “It is important to understand that the sun is still dangerous on cloudy or cooler days,” Luckasen said. “Just because you can’t feel your skin frying in the sun does not mean that it will not do any damage. Ultraviolet light can penetrate clouds. It is stronger at higher altitudes and around water. So prevention any time you are outside is essential.” Midwest Dermatology has three locations in Omaha, one in Bellevue, Neb., and one each in Norfolk and Grand Island.