As Melanoma Awareness Month continues, it is important to educate yourself and others about the potential risks about this skin cancer. The following facts are sobering reminders of why prevention should be an important part of your skin care and health.

Did you know?

• 20% of Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime
• About 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer everyday
• In the U.S., every hour someone loses his or her life to skin cancer
• Before the age of 50, women have a higher incidence rates of melanoma than men
• By the age of 65, men have double the incidence rates of women
• Women are nine times likelier than men to recognize skin abnormalities that lead to melanoma
• Early diagnosis and treatment of melanoma is linked to a 5 year survival rate of 98%

This year the American Academy of Dermatology is leading a campaign called “Check Your Partner. Check Yourself,” which encourages people to routinely perform skin checks on themselves and their partners. Early detection, especially for the most fatal melanoma, is key for higher rates of successful treatments.

Early signs of skin cancer include abnormalities in the skin such as changes in size, border, symmetry, color. If you notice a suspicious area on yourself or your partner, consult with a board-certified dermatologist right away.

Dr. Juan Vaillant is a skin, hair, and nail specialist who has been treating patients with skin cancer and other issues for over 30 years at his practice at Old Bridge Dermatology. From common conditions like acne, dandruff, eczema, dermatitis, age spots, hair loss and nail fungus to skin cancer and allergy testing, Dr. Vaillant uses his specialties in dermatology and anatomic and clinical pathology to provide high quality care for each of his patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our Old Bridge, NJ office at (732)679-0222!