Doctors warn of melanoma risk as summer heat creeps in

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Many of us will be spending more time outdoors as the weather heats up and that means more exposure to the sun. As summer approaches, doctors say it’s critical to be able to spot the warning signs of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with one in five people developing the disease in their lifetime. Doctors say it’s especially concerning for residents of the Sunshine State, which has the second-highest rate of Melanoma in the country. More than 600 people die from the illness in Florida every year, according to the National Institutes of Health.

While more cases of skin cancer tend to be diagnosed in older patients, doctors at Tampa General Hospital say the disease is now appearing more often in younger patients.

“We’re seeing it’s one of the most common forms of cancer in young women in their 20’s and 30’s,” said Dr. Nishit Patel, a dermatologist with TGH and USF Health.

The color, shape or size of a mole on your skin can indicate if a cancer is forming, which is why doctors say it’s important to keep an eye on any existing spots. However, they say most melanomas come from otherwise normal skin that starts to develop dark or irregular marks.

“It goes back to the idea that if you know your spots, you know what’s been the same for years, you’re gonna pick up on something new that’s growing just as quickly as something that’s changing that’s been there,” Patel said.

Skin cancer can typically be easily treated if caught early, however, it can spread to other parts of the body if left unchecked. Doctors say it’s vital to conduct your skin exams regularly to look for any changes and recommend seeing a dermatologist for more thorough exams.

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