Francesca says:
If you are in a risk category for skin cancer, when was the last time you checked all your moles for any changes?
And, since it is difficult to see all those hard-to-reach places, when was the last time you had a full-body scan by a dermatologist?
It only takes a few minutes and when it comes to skin cancer, early detection is paramount! If you are in a high-risk group, see the dermatologist every six months! Talk to him/her about how to avoid skin cancer!
Do not worry about the Big Body being peered over by the skin doctor. Skin doctors have seen it all. And besides, this is your health –possibly your life — we are discussing.
Francesca hath spoken.
xoxo
I was terrified to have a skin scan, convinced that the doctors would secretly (or not-so-secretly) be laughing at me and all my flaws. They really don’t, though. Super-focused on the skin, everywhere. And I do mean everywhere – that dermatologist has seen places my last boyfriend hadn’t.
Comment by Jennifer — March 26, 2009 @ 8:59 pm
I would like to add, do be sure that your dermatologist does get intimate with your feet, hands, nails, scalp and nether regions as often cancer starts there. Some doctors do a good screen of major body parts but neglect those other areas. A friend of mine lost her sister to groin cancer (that did spread).
And don’t forget the kids! My fair skinned, red headed son hates his cancer screens but he even had to have a pre-cancerous mole removed, at 12. Now, at nearly 15, and several inches taller than me, it is harder to chase him around with sunscreen, it’s still worth it. (I suggest a zinc oxide spray sunscreen, it starts out white, then absorbs until it’s clear).
Thank you Francesca, for this important reminder!
Comment by Christine — March 27, 2009 @ 11:16 am
Um, I don’t know why my comment has been repeated with a little addition at the end, and I really don’t know why clicking on “Jennifer” takes me to a skin care website in that second comment.
Comment by Jennifer — March 27, 2009 @ 10:17 pm