May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and health professionals in the local area want to remind residents to know the warning signs of skin cancer.
Lima Memorial Health System and Gray Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery say that melanoma is the most common tell-tale sign of skin cancer. Melanoma is when an unusual growth or change occurs in an existing mole. Family history is also a big factor when it comes to the risk of skin cancer.
"Biggest thing is your family history," explained Dr. Bryan Gray, dermatologist. "So, melanoma, especially since it's melanoma May, that is why we're talking about it. That tends to have a heavy genetic component so if you have a family history of melanoma, that's a big warning sign to say hey, maybe I should get checked out. If you have a lot of moles inherently, that could be another sign, even though most moles are fine, just the fact that you make more moles that means you're predisposed to getting melanoma later in life."
A free screening and education program will be available later this month on Thursday May 26th. Those interested in scheduling an appointment are asked to call 419-998-8297.
