As the most common cancer in
the United States, cancer attracts
lots of media exposure,
especially during the sun-kissed
summer months. But here's a fact
that often escapes
notice:Melanoma can surface in
some of the most unusual places.
Like under your toenails. Or
behind your ears.
Many of us know that cancerous
spots can appear in areas that get
direct sun, like the face, arms and
neck. But body parts that aren't
so visible, or as closely
inspected, can also harbor unseen
spots that may go undetected
and, therefore, escape early
intervention. "Under the nails is a
very concerning area, especially
with the common use of gel
manicures," which use a product
that hardens by curing under
ultraviolet lamps, says Dr. Laura
Farrington, Medical Oncologist
at our hospital outside Chicago.
"The direct exposure of UV rays
to the hands and nails, especially
regularly, may increase the risk
of melanoma and other skin
cancers in those areas."
Even the bottoms of your feet,
palms of your hands and your
eyelids can be vulnerable to skin
cancer. Likewise, your scalp,
underarms and groin may not see
much of the sun, but cancer can
develop there, too. Routine
checkups are key to early
intervention, Dr. Farrington says.
"The scalp is actually a common
site for melanomas," she says. "It
is also important to have regular
gynecological exams, because
even though the pelvic area does
not have much exposure to the
sun, melanoma can still occur,
and it may be difficult to check
yourself."
For hard-to-see body parts, try
using a hand mirror or asking
your loved ones for help. Your
hairdresser can also prove
instrumental in checking your
scalp and behind your ears
during your regular visits. If you
get massages, ask your therapist
to look for unusual moles, spots
or patches, especially on your
back. See your doctor if anything
changes or looks suspicious.
Skin cancer affects people of all
demographics, regardless of their
skin color or pigmentation. That's
why it is important that everyone
wears sunscreen, including
African-Americans, who "can
still get melanoma, although the
risk is lower," says Dr. Laurence
Altshuler , Director of Oncology