Here Comes the Sun!!

It's not too early to talk about sun safety, especially since we've seen a few pink arms and faces around the office today after a sunny weekend. Additionally, there was this news today about a higher rate of melanoma being diagnosed in "wealthy white women". Obviously, the people who need to hear our message of sunscreen, hats and shade most are not hearing it - or they're ignoring it. We still have work to do in that area.

But this week we're more interested in being aware of signs of past sun transgressions. Most of us already know that too much sun can damage our skin. In fact, any amount of sun causes damage, with the level and severity increasing over time. Tanning (whether by the pool or in a bed) is, technically, an intentional cooking of one's outer layers of skin. Now that you know that, we are confident you will remember to use more sunscreen in the future. But what about all those unprotected days you've already spent acquiring a "healthy glow"?

Many skin cancers start out as a weird-looking mole or patch of skin that itches or bleeds and doesn't heal properly. But there are a myriad of other skin anomalies that a dermatologist checks for during a screening for skin damage. Most people don't go see a dermatologist on their own unless they have a diagnosis that requires it - eczema for example, or rosacea. Several reasons might be offered for not getting regular check ups: lack of time, the high cost of a specialist that's not covered under your health insurance plan, or just no clue how to choose one out of the long list of clinics in Northwest Arkansas.

Have we got a deal for you!!!  Mark your calendar for our upcoming skin cancer screening clinic that will be held April 2nd at our office. All that is required of you is that you call to set an appointment. Easy! We will bring seven local dermatologists to you to check moles, freckles, and that funny little patch on your forehead that flakes and itches. And all that special attention is absolutely free of charge!!

Take a minute and schedule an appointment - call 479-361-5847 and we'll get you set up. After you've made your own appointment, call or email all your friends and family in NWA and challenge them to do the same. It's a quick visit, doesn't cost a thing, and could be the key to preventing a loved one from having to deal with Melanoma, the most lethal type of skin cancer that killed almost 9,000 people in the U.S. last year. Help us help reduce that number this year by scheduling your screening today.