JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Do you know that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States?
Anyone can get skin cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control, people with a lighter natural skin color, a family history of skin cancer, a personal history of skin cancer, a history of indoor tanning, skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, blonde or red hair or certain types and a large number of moles may be at a higher risk of developing skin cancer than others.
A change in your skin such as new growth, a sore that does not heal or a change in a mole are the most common sign of skin cancer.
The CDC recommends a simple way to remember the signs of melanoma are to remember A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma:
"A" means asymmetrical. Look at the mole or spot to make sure there is no irregular shape.
"B" means border. Are the outer edges irregular or jagged?
"C" means color. Is there an uneven color?
"D" means diameter. Has the mole or spot gotten larger than the size of a pea?
"E" means evolving. Has there been a change in the mole or spot during the past few weeks or months?
Here are some ways to lower your skin cancer risk and for protecting your skin from the sun:
Stay out of the sun between 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
Wear a hat with a wide brim.
Wear sunglasses
Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
Check your skin regularly for changes.
Remember to talk with your Primary Care Manager if you notice changes in any moles or spots on your skin.
If you haven't done so already, MiCare is a great way to communicate online with your PCM for non-urgent medical concerns.
There are three ways to sign up or register for MiCare:
1. In person at any clinic within the Medical Group. You will receive an e-mail with instructions on completing registration.
2. Complete an E-registration form if you have a CAC card. The form is available through your unit's first sergeant. E-mail the complete form to our MiCare organizational box 628mdg.micare@us.af.mil.
3. Over the telephone. When you speak to medical personnel, he or she will ask you a few questions to verify your identity. You will receive an e-mail with instructions on completing registration.
Please contact the MiCare Wing POC, Maj. Helda Carey, at 963-6738 for assistance with any questions related to MiCare enrollment.