4 Things the Galaxy Should Know About Skin Cancer

KANSAS CITY, Kan., May 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- No matter what type of environment you live in, skin cancer is a powerful force that affects the lives of thousands of people. It is the most common form of cancer in the United States.

Since May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and May 4th is an unofficial "May the 4th Be with You" Holiday, The University of Kansas Hospital has developed an infographic to highlight the 4 Things The Galaxy Should Know About Skin Cancer: www.kumed.com/maythe4thbewithyou

The infographic includes the following 4 tips:

I.  "That's No Mole..." – Not all skin cancers look the same. Be on the lookout for signs of melanoma. The CDC recommends using the A-E method when evaluating a mole:

• "A" -- Asymmetrical. Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?
• "B" -- Border. Is the border irregular or jagged?
• "C" -- Color. Is the color uneven?
• "D" -- Diameter. Is the mole or spot larger than the size of a pea?
• "E" -- Evolving. Has the mole or spot changed during the past few weeks or months?

II.  Avoid Planets with Two Suns – Most cases of skin cancer are caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun (or two suns if you live on certain desert planets). Be sure to cover arms and legs with long clothing or use a sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Hats and sunglasses are also a must.

III.  "I Am Your Father" – According to the CDC, people who have a close relative with a specific type of skin cancer called melanoma may be at greater risk of developing the disease.

IV.  "I Have a Bad Feeling About This" – If an area of skin looks or feels problematic – painful to the touch or very sensitive -- get it checked by a doctor.

Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160503/363230-INFO

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SOURCE The University of Kansas Hospital