Summer is Here, but Wyoming Residents are at Higher Risk for Melanoma
About 17 people in Wyoming die from melanoma each year; it is the 6th most diagnosed cancer in Wyoming. The Wyoming Academy of Dermatology (WAD) aims to equip Wyoming residents with knowledge on how best to protect their skin and when to see a board-certified dermatologist.
One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and in Wyoming, the risk is even higher. Wyoming residents have a higher risk of dying from melanoma than the national average. Wyoming residents live at higher elevations where every 1,000 feet of elevation increases UV exposure by up to 10%. That fact, combined with the number of Wyomingites who spend a lot of time outdoors, increases the risk of skin cancer. WAD stresses the importance of knowing your risk and taking steps to prevent skin cancer. Their board members, composed of Wyoming’s board-certified dermatologists, have developed a skin cancer quiz that tests skin cancer knowledge.
Knowing when to see a dermatologist starts with recognizing the signs and symptoms of skin cancer. Along with articles written by Wyoming’s board-certified dermatologist, WAD advises Wyoming residents to take a closer look at their skin for new or changing moles, lumps or bumps that aren't healing, and dry, gritty patches of skin, especially for people that are over 50, have a family history of skin cancer, or have had excessive sun exposure in their lifetime. If skin changes like these are discovered, it’s time to seek a board-certified dermatologist.
Residents should consult a board-certified dermatologist with skin concerns, as their extensive training and dermatology residencies make them the experts in skin health. The comprehensive education and training dermatologists receive equips them with the knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat various skin conditions, ranging from common acne to complex skin disorders and advanced skin cancer care. Wyoming has several board-certified dermatologists; find one in your area.
This summer, be sure to take steps to prevent skin cancer by covering up when in the sun, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and knowing when to see a board-certified dermatologist for screenings. Through education and awareness, WAD is empowering patients with the goal of improving skin cancer outcomes in Wyoming.
For accurate information on skin cancer prevention, WAD provides articles, insights, and statistics to help safeguard skin. Do you think you know all about skin cancer prevention? Test your skin cancer knowledge with their "Skin Cancer: Fact or Fiction" quiz at https://www.wyomingacademyofdermatology.org/skin-cancer#fact-or-fiction.