Early detection of skin cancer important in Arizona as temperatures rise, expert says

PHOENIX — As temperatures rise, it’s important for Arizonans to catch early signs of skin cancer as well as protect their skin from extreme heat, one expert says.

CEO of Cancer Support Community Arizona Julie Dunnigan told KTAR News 92.3 FM skin cancer is more common in Arizona compared to the rest of the country due to sun exposure, the UV index and elevation.

There are several signs skin cancer, including a new mole or spot on the skin, changes in size, shape or color and a spot that is itchy or painful.

Dunnigan said that it’s important to detect early signs of skin cancer, as most froms, including melanoma, are 99% curable if caught early. She added that melanoma can be a very deadly if not caught early.

“Early detection is such a key to making sure that you get the best possible outcome if you do end up getting skin cancer,” Dunnigan said. “Melanoma is the one (form of cancer) most dermatologists and doctors are concerned with, and we have higher rates of melanoma than the rest of the country.

“It’s still cancer and it’s still something really serious we want to try to avoid exposing ourselves to because it can lead to death.”

How can Arizonans protect their skin from the heat?

To stay safe from the heat, Dunnigan recommends Arizonans to follow these steps when outside:

• Put on sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses
• Avoid being in the sun for long periods of time between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Avoid suntanning and tanning beds
• Check UV index
• Stay in shade as much as possible.

Dunnigan said that cancer can also happen where the sun doesn’t shine and that’s important for people to check their skin anywhere for moles and skin irregularities.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Colton Krolak contributed to this story.

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