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"Skin and Sea"
Question and Answer part III
 |
| Dr. Andrea Cambio is a board
certified dermatologist practicing
in Cape Coral. She is a Fellow
of the American Academy of
Dermatology and treats
adults and children. |
Q: How often should I get my skin checked?
A: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that individuals be checked annually. In
instances where there is a personal history of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell
carcinoma, or malignant melanoma), it is strongly advisable to be checked more frequently such as
every six months. More frequent checks are also suggested for those who have a history of precancers
(actinic keratoses) and multiple abnormal moles (dysplastic nevi). In the instance that a patient finds a
changing, bleeding or new growth, it is necessary to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to
have the lesion evaluated.
Q: Can I check my own skin? What should I look out for?
A: Yes! Early detection and removal of a skin cancer offer the best chance for a cure. I have patients
do a periodic self-examination once every month or two. It is important to get familiar with one's own
skin, pattern of moles, freckles, etc. You should watch for any changes in number, size, shape and
color of moles. The first step is to examine the front and back of your body in a mirror in a well lit
room. Then examine the right and left sides with arms raised. Bend your elbows and carefully look at
your forearms, the back of your upper arms and palms. Next, look at the back of your legs and feet,
soles and spaces between toes. Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Finally,
check your back, buttocks and groin area with a hand mirror. Consult a dermatologist promptly if any
changes are noted. It is quite helpful to get assistance from a spouse or partner in performing skin self
exams. I inform patients that this type of exam is not a substitute for a skin check performed by a
dermatology health care provider.
Q: How common is skin cancer? What are the risk factors?
A: Skin cancer is the most prevalent of all types of cancers. More than one million Americans develop
skin cancer annually. Some risk factors are: having fair-skin, having the tendency to sunburn easily, a
family history of skin cancer, a history of prolonged sun exposure as well as sunburns, and having a
compromised immune system.
Q: What should I do if I get sunburn?
A: The key is not to get a sunburn in the first place! But in the instance of where it is too late: apply
cool compresses (ice packs or cool water), Apply an aloe based gel. This not only soothes the skin, but
also cools it down and moisturizes it as well. Over the counter hydrocortisone cream works well also. I
sometimes recommend taking an aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (like ibuprofen)
if there are no known health risks or allergies known to the patient. If there are blisters, or the patient
feels physically ill, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Excessive sun exposure,
especially sunburn is the most important preventable cause of melanoma. So my advice is not to get
sunburn in the first place. It not only hurts, it can be linked to the development of a potentially lethal
form of skin cancer.
- Dr. Andrea Cambio
Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Andrew’s Professional Center
316 Del Prado Blvd. S. Suite 201
Cape Coral 829-7102
dracambio@gmail.com
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