Tammie Souza Blog: It's Melanoma Monday

May 4th is Melanoma Monday. It's all part of May's Skin Cancer Awareness month.

1 in 5 American's will develop skin cancer in their lifetime and 1 person dies from melanoma every hour. If caught early melanoma is highly treatable according to the American Academy of Dermatology. They have a new campaign this year #WhosGotYourBack. The campaign was launched because so many people will check only the spots the can readily see for irregular spots and moles. Dermatologists recommend applying the equivalent of a shot glass of sunscreen every 90 minutes regardless for the best protection. To learn more about skin cancer and skin cancer protection visit SpotSkinCancer.org

Here are the ABCDE's of what to look for when checking for melanoma:

Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other.

Boarder Irregularity: Edges are uneven or blurred.

Color: Varies from one area to another.

Diameter: Usually greater than 6 mm (Pencil eraser size), but can be much smaller.

Evolving: Look for changes in size, shape and color.