Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. However, most skin cancers are treatable when found early. It’s important to protect your skin and be on the lookout for any changes with moles and spots.
Self-Exams
Self-exams are a key to early detection. Look for changes to your skin, including:
- new moles or growths
- older ones that are growing or changing
- a lesion that itches, bleeds or doesn't heal
Signs of Cancer
There are three types of skin cancer. The two most common are basal and squamous cell. They usually can be cured but treatment can be expensive and lead to disfigurement. The third most common type of skin cancer is melanoma. It is the deadliest because it spreads to other parts of the body.
Health professionals suggest two strategies to find suspicious moles: the ABCDEs and the Ugly Duckling sign.
ABCDEs of Melanoma are:
- A and B: Look for Asymmetry and irregular borders. This means a mole has changed to an irregular, noncircular shape or has a less distinct edge between the mole and rest of your skin.
- C:Any change in color is also important. Many melanomas are black or brown, but can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white .
- D: Diameter is the size of a mole. A mole larger than a pencil eraser is a concern.
- E: Your skin changes and evolves over time. But see your doctor if you notice a new mole with one of the ABCD traits or if you see changes in an existing mole.
The Ugly Duckling sign means to look for something that is different. It might be one mole that is different than those around it. It might be larger or darker. It's a sign to bring that to your provider's attention .
Protect Your Skin from UV Exposure
Melanoma is caused by intense UV exposure, which often leads to sunburn. Those with a family history of skin cancer are more at risk. It's important to protect your skin when you're in the sun and skip tanning beds.
Just one blistering sunburn as a child or teen more than doubles your risk for melanoma. Everyone over six months old should follow these guidelines:
- Choose sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30,iswater resistant and providesbroad-spectrum protection.
- Apply sunscreen generously before going outdoors. It takes about 15 minutes for your skin to soak up the sunscreen and protect you.
- Apply sunscreen to all bare skin Remember your neck, face, ears, legs and the tops of your feet. For hard-to-reach areas like your back, ask someone to help. If you have thinning hair, either apply sunscreen to your scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm with a SPF of at least 15.
- Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. Reapply right away after swimming or sweating heavily.
Resources for TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care
Provider Finder®
If you're concerned about a mole, use this reference guide and then talk to your Primary Care Provider or dermatologist. Your PCP can recommend a specialist if you need one. If you need help finding a PCP or other specialist, use Provider Finder® to search by location, gender and specialty. A Personal Health Guide can help you find an in-network provider 24/7. Call 1-866-355-5999 or chat through the BCBSTX App.
Resources for TRS-Care Medicare
Annual Wellness Visits and Finding a Provider
Your plan covers one physical exam and one wellness visit per calendar year. You can ask your provider to combine the visits into one convenient annual care appointment. You and your provider can work as a team to create a preventive care plan for the year. If you need help finding a provider or have questions about your benefits , please call UnitedHealthcare at 1-866-347-9507 , TTY 711 , 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday. You can also search for providers online by signing in to retiree.uhc.com/TRS-CareMproviA.