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Breast cancer treatment has come a long way—and surgery is no exception. Today, women have more options than ever before—options designed not only to fight cancer but to protect dignity, confidence, and quality of life.In this video, we explore the latest innovations in breast cancer surgery, including:Oncoplastic surgery — combining cancer removal and breast reconstruction in one procedureSentinel lymph node biopsy — reducing side effects and promoting faster recoveryPrecision planning through advanced imaging and genetic testingNipple-sparing mastectomy and minimally invasive techniques for natural resultsEvery woman's breast cancer journey is unique. Modern surgery is now personalized to each patient, offering the best possible outcomes—both medically and emotionally.✨ Early detection saves lives. Schedule your mammogram, know your family history, and talk openly with your doctor about your options. Awareness isn't just about October—it's about every day.Cancer won't wait. Hope is here—at The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.

October is recognized as Liver Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on a disease that often goes unnoticed until it is advanced. Unlike some cancers, liver cancer can develop silently, making education around risk factors, early warning signs, and treatment options especially important. By raising awareness, we can help people identify risks sooner and improve outcomes through timely care.The Scope of Liver CancerWhile not as common as breast or lung cancer, liver cancer is one of the fastest-growing causes of cancer deaths in the United States. In 2025, an estimated 42,240 people will be diagnosed, and about 30,090 deaths are expected.The challenge lies in the disease's aggressiveness: the five-year survival rate is about 22% overall. Survival varies widely by stage, about 35% if caught early, but only 2-3% for distant stage disease. These numbers emphasize why prevention and vigilance are critical.Who Is at Risk?Liver cancer does not develop overnight. In most cases, it arises from long-term damage to the liver. Major risk factors include:Chronic hepatitis B or C infections, which cause inflammation and scarring over time.Cirrhosis, often the result of hepatitis, heavy alcohol use, or fatty liver disease.Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (MASLD), strongly tied to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, is becoming one of the fastest-growing causes of liver cancer worldwide.Environmental or inherited factors, including aflatoxin exposure (contaminated food), iron overload (hemochromatosis), and Wilson's disease.Lifestyle factors, such as heavy alcohol consumption and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, which further stress the liver.Recognizing SymptomsOne of the reasons liver cancer is often caught late is that early stages rarely cause symptoms. When signs do appear, they may include:Abdominal swelling or painUnexplained weight loss or appetite changesJaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)Dark urine or pale stoolsPersistent nausea, vomiting, or fatigueThese symptoms are not exclusive to liver cancer, but they are red flags that should prompt medical evaluation.Screening and DiagnosisUnlike breast or colon cancer, there is no population-wide screening program for liver cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has not recommended routine screening for people at average risk.However, for high-risk individuals, such as those with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis, doctors often recommend regular surveillance with ultrasound and blood tests (AFP) every 6 months.Diagnosis may involve imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI), blood tests, and sometimes biopsy to confirm cancer type.Progress in TreatmentWhile survival rates remain low compared to some other cancers, treatment advances are offering patients more options than ever before.Surgery and Transplantation: surgical removal or liver transplant offers the best chance for cure in early-stage disease, with survival rates up to 70% at five years for eligible patients.Localized Therapies: procedures such as radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and radioembolization can target tumors directly when surgery isn't possible.Systemic Therapies: Immunotherapy drugs like atezolizumab (Tecentriq) combined with bevacizumab (Avastin) are now a standard first-line treatment for advanced liver cancer. Targeted therapies such as sorafenib and lenvatinib continue to extend survival for patients who cannot undergo surgery.Ongoing clinical trials are testing new combinations of immunotherapy. The trend is clear: treatment is becoming more personalized, with therapies chosen based on tumor biology, stage, and patient health.How to Protect Your Liver HealthThis Liver Cancer Awareness Month, focus on steps that can reduce your risk and protect your long-term liver health:Get vaccinated for hepatitis B and, if you have hepatitis C, seek treatment; new antiviral therapies can cure the infection.Limit alcohol and avoid behaviors that increase viral hepatitis risk.Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and manage conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol.Talk to your doctor about surveillance if you have cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, or other high-risk conditions.Be alert to symptoms and seek medical advice promptly if you notice changes.Moving Forward with HopeWhile liver cancer remains one of the more difficult cancers to treat, progress in prevention, early detection, and therapy is moving the field forward. Every step: vaccination, lifestyle changes, awareness, has the power to reduce risk and save lives.At The Center, our team is committed to supporting patients with risk assessment, advanced treatment, and compassionate care.This Liver Cancer Awareness Month, make your health a priority: protect your liver, schedule check-ins with your provider, and share the importance of awareness with loved ones.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of prevention, screening, and treatment progress against one of the most common cancers affecting women. While breast cancer remains a serious health concern, advances in detection and therapy are giving patients more hope than ever before.Understanding the NumbersBreast cancer remains the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers. Approximately 1 in 8 women will develop the disease during their lifetime. While these statistics may seem concerning, there's reason for hope: when detected early, the 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is nearly 99%. This highlights the critical importance of awareness, screening, and early detection.Key Risk Factors to KnowSome risks cannot be changed, while others can be managed through lifestyle choices.Inherent Risk FactorsAge – risk increases with age, especially after 50Gender – women are at much higher risk than menFamily history of breast or ovarian cancerGenetic mutations – BRCA1 or BRCA2 are the most well knownPersonal history of breast cancer or certain benign breast conditionsDense breast tissuePrevious chest radiation therapyEarly menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55)Modifiable Risk FactorsAlcohol consumption – even moderate drinking increases riskObesity, specifically after menopauseLack of physical activityCertain types of hormone replacement therapySmokingHigh fat dietLow fruit and vegetable intakeReproductive factors – having no pregnancies or first pregnancies after the age of 30Having risk factors does not guarantee a diagnosis but understanding them helps guide screening and lifestyle decisions.Current Screening Guidelines: The Power of Early DetectionEarly detection saves lives, and screening recommendations have evolved based on the latest research and evidence.National GuidelinesAccording to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends women start annual mammograms at age 40 as long as the woman is in good health and has a life expectancy of 10 years or more.High Risk IndividualsWomen with a strong family history, BRCA mutations, or prior chest radiation may need earlier and more frequent screening, sometimes starting in their 20s-30s. Additional imaging such as MRI may be recommended.Self-AwarenessKnowing how your breasts normally look and feel remains an important tool. Report changes such as new lumps, swelling, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling to your healthcare provider right away.Advances in Breast Cancer TreatmentTreatment is becoming more personalized, precise, and effective thanks to medical innovation.Immunotherapy: drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) have changed the outlook for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). These immune checkpoint inhibitor treatments help the patient's own immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs): new therapies, including Trodelvy, deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Combined with Keytruda, Trodelvy has recently shown a 35% reduction in disease progression risk in advanced TNBC.Targeted Therapies: Targeted therapies, including CDK4/6 inhibitors, HER2-directed drugs, and PARP inhibitors, are improving outcomes for many patients with specific tumor profiles.Surgical and Radiation Advances: Oncoplastic surgery allows cancer removal with immediate reconstruction. Sentinel node biopsy reduces the need for extensive lymph removal. Hypofractionated radiation delivers therapy in fewer sessions with equal effectiveness.Neoadjuvant Therapy: treatments given before surgery can shrink tumors, allow less invasive surgery, and guide therapy choices.Taking Action: What You Can DoStay current with screening recommendations for your age and risk levelMaintain a healthy lifestyle – stay active, keep a healthy weight, and limit alcoholKnow your family history and ask if genetic testing may be appropriateBe aware of changes in your breasts and speak with your provider if something seems unusualDon't skip screenings – early detection saves livesQuestions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider:Am I at higher-than-average risk for breast cancer?When should I start screening, and how often?Would I benefit from genetic counseling?What symptoms should prompt me to call your office?A Message of HopeToday, more people are surviving breast cancer and living well during and after treatment. Clinical trials, precision medicine, and supportive care continue to improve outcomes.At The Center, we are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive breast cancer care. Whether you're due for your first mammogram, concerned about symptoms, or seeking advanced treatment, our team is here to guide and support you.This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take charge of your health, schedule your screening, know your risk, and share the importance of early detection with loved ones.

Without patients willing to participate in clinical trials, we wouldn't have any of the enormous advances in oncology. We at The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders are excited to partner with The START Center for Cancer Research, a global leader in cancer research.This partnership will give our patients much needed access to Phase 1 clinical trials right here in DFW. Please wish us and our patients well as we continue to hold the hands of those we care for on their journey.

Ovarian and uterine cancers are two of the most common types of gynecologic cancers, and they often don't receive the attention they deserve. These cancers affect thousands of women each year, which is why we believe it's important to raise awareness this month about the symptoms, risks, and importance of early detection.Whether you're learning for yourself or someone you love, here's what you need to know.Let's Start with the Basics: What Are Ovarian and Uterine Cancers?Both cancers begin in the reproductive organs, but differ in how they develop and present.Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries or nearby tissues like the fallopian tubes or peritoneum. It's often called a "silent" cancer because early symptoms can be vague or mistaken for other conditions.Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, begins in the lining of the uterus. It's the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S.Know the Warning SignsPaying attention to your body is key, especially when symptoms are persistent or unusual.Common symptoms of ovarian cancer can include:Vaginal bleeding or discharge that is unusual for youBloating or abdominal swellingPelvic or abdominal painFeeling full quickly when eatingChanges in urinary frequency and/or bowel habitsBack pain and fatigueUterine cancer symptoms may include:Abnormal vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause)Vaginal discharge that is unusual for youPelvic pain or pressurePain during intercourseThese symptoms don't always mean cancer, but they should never be ignored.There is no routine screening test for ovarian cancer, which makes symptom awareness more crucial. Diagnosis may involve pelvic exams, imaging (ultrasound or CT), blood tests like CA-125, or biopsy.Uterine cancer is often detected early due to abnormal bleeding. Diagnosis may involve an endometrial biopsy, transvaginal ultrasound, or dilation and curettage (D&C).Who is at Risk?While any woman can be affected, certain factors may increase the risk for these cancers:Age: most cases occur in women over 50Family history: especially of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancerInherited genetic mutations: such as BRCA1/BRCA2 or Lynch syndromeHormone-related factors: early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapyObesity and related health conditions: particularly in uterine cancerTreatment and Support: You're Not AloneBoth cancers are treatable, especially if caught early. Treatment often involves a combination of:SurgeryHysterectomy: removal of the uterus. It may also include removal of the cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. After a hysterectomy, a woman can no longer get pregnant.Oophorectomy: removal of one or both ovaries. Often used to both treat and prevent ovarian cancer. Removing both ovaries causes immediate menopause.Radiation therapyChemotherapyHormone or targeted therapy, depending on the cancer type and stage (typically for more advanced cases)Care plans are always tailored to each woman's needs, talk to your primary care or OBGYN about what treatment options could best serve you.Be Your Own AdvocateUnderstanding your body, knowing your risks, and speaking up about symptoms are powerful tools in protecting your health. If something feels off, don't wait. Talk to your doctor; we are here to help.Whether you are facing a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or simply educating yourself, awareness matters.

Leukemia and lymphoma awareness helps drive early detection, better treatment outcomes, and vital support for patients and families. As two of the most common types of blood cancer, both conditions affect the body's ability to fight infection, but with earlier diagnosis and ongoing advances in treatment, there's more hope than ever for patients facing these diseases.What Are Leukemia and Lymphoma?Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It typically begins in the cells that would become white blood cells, leading to the production of abnormal cells that crowd out healthy ones. Leukemia is categorized based on how quickly it progresses, either fast-growing (acute) or slow growing (chronic), and by the type of white blood cells it affects. The main types include, but are not limited to:Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL): Most common in young children but can also occur in adults.Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): A fast-growing leukemia that is more common in adults, though it can also affect children.Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL): The most common chronic leukemia in adults. Some people may feel well for years before needing treatment.Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML): Primarily affects adults. Symptoms may be mild or absent for a long time before progressing more rapidly.Other rare types: These include hairy cell leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myeloproliferative disorders.Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It begins in lymphocytes; a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection. There are two main types of lymphoma:Hodgkin lymphoma: This type starts in B lymphocytes (B cells) and typically affects lymph nodes in the upper body. It often spreads in an orderly pattern from one node to the next.Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL): Also begins in lymphocytes but can develop in lymph tissue throughout the body, including the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, thymus, tonsils, adenoids, and digestive tract. NHL includes many subtypes, ranging from slow growing to more aggressive forms.Symptoms to Watch ForSigns of leukemia and lymphoma can be subtle or resemble other conditions. Common symptoms include:Fatigue or weaknessFever or night sweatsFrequent infectionsSwollen lymph nodesUnexplained weight lossEasy bruising or bleedingBone or joint painIf symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to talk with your healthcare provider.Who is at Risk?While anyone can develop blood cancer, certain factors may increase risk:Age: leukemia is more common in older adults, though some types affect childrenGender: lymphoma and leukemia are slightly more common in malesFamily History: a history of blood cancers may raise your riskImmune System Disorders: autoimmune diseases or immunosuppressive therapy may be contributing factorsExposure to certain chemicals or radiationPrevious chemotherapy and radiation, smoking (AML)Understanding your risk factors and staying proactive with your health can lead to earlier diagnosis and more treatment options.Diagnosis and TreatmentDiagnosis may involve blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, imaging, or lymph node biopsies, depending on the symptoms and suspect type of cancer. Treatment is highly individualized and may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Our oncology care team will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the type and stage of the patient's cancer, as well as overall health and treatment goals.

Prostate cancer awareness is essential for early detection, effective treatment, and saving lives. It's the second most common cancer among men in the United States, yet many people know little about the risk factors, signs, and screening guidelines. During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we're here to help men and their families better understand this disease and the steps they can take to protect their health.Understanding Prostate CancerThe prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system that helps produce semen. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the prostate grow out of control. Most cases grow slowly, but some types are more aggressive. That's why understanding your risk and screening options is key to catching it early.Risk Factors to KnowSeveral factors may increase a man's risk for prostate cancer, including:Age – risk increases significantly after age 50Family History – having a father, brother, or son with prostate cancer doubles your riskRace – black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and to have more aggressive formsLifestyle Factors – obesity and poor diet may also play a roleIf you or someone you know has one or more of these risk factors, talk to a doctor about an earlier or more frequent screening.Symptoms and Early DetectionIn its early stages, prostate cancer often doesn't cause overly noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, symptoms may include:Early-Stage SymptomsDifficulty urinatingFrequent urination, especially at nightWeak or interrupted urine flowBlood in urine or semenPain in the back, hips, or pelvisLate-Stage SymptomsBack painBone painErectile DysfunctionFatigueWeight lossWeaknessBecause symptoms may not appear until later, regular screening is essential.Screening: When and HowThe most common screening tools include a PSA blood test and digital rectal exams.PSA Blood Test: Measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated levels may indicate cancer or other prostate conditions.Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A quick physical exam where a doctor checks the prostate for abnormalities.Screening guidelines vary, but many experts recommend starting conversations with your doctor at age 50 or earlier if you're high-risk.Diagnosing and Treating Prostate CancerIf your screening shows abnormal results, your provider may recommend imaging or a prostate biopsy. If cancer is confirmed, treatment may include:Active surveillance: monitoring slow-growing cancer with regular checkupsSurgery: removing the prostate gland (prostatectomy)Radiation therapy: using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cellsHormone therapy: reducing testosterone levels to slow cancer growthChemotherapy: used for more advanced or aggressive cancersImmunotherapy: helping the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cellsYour care team will work with you to determine the best plan based on your cancer type, stage, and overall health.Support for the Whole JourneyA prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. Our team is here to provide expert care, personalized treatment plans, and support every step of the way. This includes everything from diagnosis through survivorship.

When facing a cancer diagnosis, most people focus on treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, or immunotherapy. But another essential part of cancer care often goes underrecognized: supportive and palliative care.These services help manage side effects, ease emotional burdens, and provide personalized support that improves comfort and quality of life. It's important to understand what supportive and palliative care really mean—and how they can make a meaningful difference throughout the cancer journey.What's the Difference Between Supportive and Palliative Care?Supportive care includes a wide range of services designed to help patients manage the side effects of cancer and its treatment, cope with emotional challenges, and maintain well-being throughout the course of care.Palliative care is a specialized type of supportive care that focuses on relieving symptoms, pain, and stress related to serious illness. It's appropriate at any stage of cancer, not just end-of-life, and is often provided alongside curative or life-prolonging treatment.Both aim to improve quality of life for patients and families by addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.Why Supportive and Palliative Care MatterCancer doesn't just affect the body; it impacts every part of life. Treatment can be physically taxing and emotionally overwhelming. Supportive and palliative care helps patients and families navigate these challenges with strength and clarity.Benefits include:Relief from symptoms like fatigue, pain, nausea, anxiety, or shortness of breathEmotional support through counseling, social work, or spiritual careGuidance on nutrition, activity, and sleep to help patients feel their bestSupport for families and caregivers during treatment and beyondImproved communication and decision-making between patients, caregivers, and care teamsWhat Services Are Included?Supportive and palliative care services can vary by practice and clinic, but often include:Symptom and pain managementPalliative care consultsEmotional support and counselingSpiritual careAdvance care planningPsychosocial supportIn addition to supportive and palliative care, many oncology practices offer a range of patient support services designed to enhance your well-being during and after treatment. These may include survivorship programs, nutrition counseling, social work and financial guidance, caregiver support, transportation assistance, and wellness classes. Together, they support your long-term quality of life and help you feel more confident and supported throughout your care. Ask our care team about the full range of services available—we're here to help guide you every step of the way.Who Can Benefit?The short answer: anyone affected by cancer.Supportive and palliative care are appropriate whether you're newly diagnosed, in active treatment, recovering after treatment, or living with advanced cancer. These services are personalized to your needs and can begin at any point in your care, not just when symptoms become overwhelming.All Parts of Your Care, ConnectedSupportive and palliative care involves a coordinated team of experts working alongside your oncology team. This often includes doctors, nurses, social workers, dietitians, therapists, chaplains, and other specialists, all focused on your comfort, clarity, and quality of life.Supportive and palliative care are not "extras"; they are essential parts of whole-person cancer care. They help ensure that your symptoms are managed, your voice is heard, and your emotional and physical needs are supported every step of the way.If you or a loved one is navigating cancer, ask your care team about supportive and palliative care services available to you. You deserve care that supports all of you, not just illness.

When it comes to skin cancer, early detection can make all the difference—and one of the most effective tools is a regular skin self-check. This simple at-home practice helps you become familiar with your skin so you can notice new or changing spots early, when treatment is most successful.Whether you're keeping an eye on an existing mole, noticing a new spot, or just being proactive, getting to know your skin, and what's normal for you, can help catch potential problems before they become serious.Why Skin Self-Checks MatterSkin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with 1 in 5 Americans developing it by age 70. While routine visits with a physician are important, most skin cancers are found first by the person who has them.Regular self-checks help you:Spot new or changing moles or spots earlyTrack anything unusual between check-upsKnow when it's time to contact your healthcare providerWhat to Look For: Use the ABCDE RuleWhen you start your skin self-check, keep the ABCDEs in mind:A = Asymmetry: one half doesn't match the otherB = Border: edges are irregular, blurred, or notchedC = Color: varies in color, shades of brown, black, red, white, or blueD = Diameter: larger than 6mm or about the size of a pencil eraserE = Evolving: changes in size, shape, color, or behavior (itching, bleeding, etc.)Also look for new growths or sores that don't heal, spots that itch, bleed, or crust over, and any mole that feels different or stands out from the rest.What You'll Need and How to Do a Head-to-Toe Skin CheckGather these items:Full length mirrorHand mirrorGood lightingChair or stool (optional, for checking feet or legs)A way to track any changes, this could be a skin map, photos, or a notes appFollow these simple steps to examine your entire body:Start with your face, neck, and ears. Don't forget behind your ears and along your hairline.Check your scalp. Use a comb or hairdryer to part your hair and check your scalp with a mirror or ask someone to help.Look at your hands and arms. Check your palms, the backs of your hands, between fingers, under fingernails, and both sides of your arms.Examine your torso. Look at your chest, stomach, underarms, and under your breasts if possible.Use a hand mirror to check your back and shoulders. You can also turn your back to a large mirror and use a hand mirror to see hard-to-reach areas.Check your legs and feet. Look at the fronts and backs of your legs, between your toes, the soles of your feet, and under your toenails.How Often Should You Do a Skin Check?Aim to check your skin once a month. It's quick, easy, and helps you get familiar with your skin so you can notice changes more confidently over time.When to See a DoctorIf you notice anything new, changing, or unusual, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Even if it turns out to be nothing, it's better to be safe and catch potential issues early. You should also consider a professional skin check if:You have a history of sunburns or tanning bed useYou have had skin cancer in the pastYou have many moles or a family history of skin cancerYou notice something you're not sure aboutSkin self-checks are a simple but powerful way to protect your health. This July, and every month, take a few minutes to check in with your skin. And if something doesn't seem right, don't wait. Early detection can save lives.

The sun is a powerful source of energy, but without protection, its ultraviolet (UV) rays—along with those from artificial sources like tanning beds—can cause lasting skin damage and significantly raise your risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States. July is recognized as UV Safety Month, a national observance that raises awareness about the dangers of UV exposure without protection and encourages habits to protect your skin every day.While spending time outdoors has many benefits, being sun smart is essential to lifelong skin health. Understanding your risk and taking simple, consistent steps to protect your skin can make all the difference.What Are UV Rays, Why Do They Matter, and What's the Link Between UV Exposure and Skin Cancer?UV rays are a form of invisible radiation from the sun and from artificial sources like tanning beds that can damage your skin and eyes. There are two main types of UV rays that affect your body:UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging, long-term skin damage, and sunburn. They're present year-round, even on cloudy days, and can pass through windows.UVB rays are more intense and primarily responsible for sunburn. They directly damage skin cells and play a significant role in the development of skin cancer.In addition to harming your skin, UV rays can also damage your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancers of the eyelids. Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is just as important as protecting your skin.The Link Between UV Exposure and Skin CancerSkin cancer affects 1 in 5 Americans by the age of 70, and UV radiation is the leading environmental cause. Here's how it connects to the three main types:Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): the most common and slowest-growing form of skin cancer. It's typically found on areas that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back.Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): often linked to chronic UV exposure over time. It can spread if left untreated and is most commonly found on the ears, scalp, neck, and hands—areas regularly exposed to sunlight.Melanoma: less common, but far more dangerous. Melanoma can spread quickly and become life-threatening if not caught early. It can appear on any part of the body, including areas not typically exposed to the sun, such as the soles of the feet or under nails. While UV exposure and sunburns increase risk, genetics and intermittent intense exposure also play a role. That's why checking your entire body, not just sun-exposed areas, is crucial during a skin self-exam.Who is Most at Risk?While anyone can develop skin cancer, some factors increase your risk, including:Fair skin, light hair, or light eyesA history of frequent sunburnsUse of tanning bedsFamily history of skin cancerA weakened immune systemSpending a lot of time outdoors without sun protectionHow to Protect YourselfPracticing sun safety every day, especially in the summer, can significantly reduce your risk. Here's how:Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day, even on cloudy daysReapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweatingWear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV blocking sunglassesSeek shade when the sun is strongest (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)Avoid tanning beds completely, they emit harmful UV raysProtecting your skin doesn't mean avoiding the sun altogether; it means being smart about your exposure. Incorporating habits into your routine like keeping sunscreen in your bag/car, setting reminders to reapply during long days outdoors, and encouraging loved ones to protect their skin, too can make a big difference right away.When to See a DoctorEarly detection is key to successful skin cancer treatment. Perform regular skin self-checks and look for:New or changing moles or spotsAsymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, or a diameter larger than a pencil eraserSpots that itch, bleed, or won't healUse the ABCDE rule (asymmetry, border, color, diameter, evolving) to assess anything that looks suspicious. If you notice any changes, talk to your doctor.This UV Safety Month, we encourage you to check in on your sun protection habits. Whether you are headed to the beach or running errands, daily precautions go a long way toward reducing your risk of skin cancer.